FLINT Town United have parted ways with manager Niall McGuinness after their defeat at Barry Town United.

The former Rhyl boss was removed from his post following a disappointing start to the campaign from the Silkmen, who achieved promotion to the JD Cymru Premier after Prestatyn Town failed to secure their Tier 1 Domestic Licence from the Football Association of Wales.

United chairman Darryl Williams outlined his gratitude for all McGuinness had done for the club since taking over, where he turned them from relegation contentions to fighting for honours at the business end of the table.

Flint secured two second-placed finishes in succession under McGuinness, in addition to winning the Huws Gray Cup for the first time in their history.

Williams, said: "This was an incredibly difficult decision on my part, as I regard Niall as a personal friend, and I'm incredibly grateful for all he's done whilst he's been here over the last three years.

“The club has undergone a huge transformation in the last five years or so, and Niall played a large part in that.

“However, as we all know, football is a results business and at the end of the day, it is vital for the club that having strived so hard to make it into the Cymru Premier League we do our utmost to stay there.

“So, with that in mind, and based upon our current league position and form, it was decided a change of management would be required. All at Flint Town United wish Niall the very best in the future and sincerely thank him for his contribution to the club.”

The club are expected to make a statement regarding a possible replacement in the “very near future”, with assistants Aden Shannon and Johnny Hill also asked to stay on.