PORTLAND United have relieved manager Simon Browne of his duties at Grove Corner. 

Browne took over from predecessor Gary Bailey during the summer after the latter stepped down following a title-winning campaign in the Sydenhams Wessex Premier Division. 

Browne's last game was a 4-3 defeat at home to Horndean on Saturday, with Portland having been 3-0 up at half-time. 

In a statement, chairman Robin Satherley said: "The management committee of Portland United Football Club have decided to relieve manager Simon Browne of his duties as first team manager of Portland United Football Club.

"We are in the process of looking for an interim manager. We wish to take this opportunity to thank Simon for all his hard work on behalf of Portland United Football Club."

When contacted by Echosport, both Browne and Satherley declined to comment further on the announcement. 

Echosport understands that assistant-manager Jake Richmond has also left the club. 

Portland United next play second-placed Blackfield and Langley at home on Saturday (3pm).