STEVE Parry has resigned as manager of First North Western Trains League outfit Clitheroe.

Parry, who took over at Shawbridge 18 months ago following the sacking of Denis Underwood, will step down from his post at the end of the season.

The former Haslingden chief wants to spend more time with his family after struggling to combine running a business with managing a football club over the past few months.

Clitheroe chairman Steve Rush today admitted it was a major blow to lose Parry, who led the Blues to the FNWTL Floodlit Trophy last season.

But the Shawbridge supremo insists the split was amicable.

"It's big blow to lose Steve because he has moved the club forward this season and up until the last few games we have been challenging for honours," said Rush.

"But being a businessman myself I understand his reasons.

"Steve has always had his own business but that has expanded quite dramatically over the last 18 months and he has found it difficult to manage both.

"And, at the end of the day, you have got to put your business and you family first.

"Although we still take the game seriously at this level, football is only his hobby."

Parry will remain in charge for Clitheroe's final two games against Prescot tonight and Newcastle on Saturday.

No replacement has yet been lined up by the club who will begin the process of drawing up a shortlist at the end of the season.