COLWYN Bay have announced the departure of manager Alan Morgan less than a month into the new Evo-Stik League West Division season.

The Seagulls confirmed the news on Sunday, September 9 following their narrow 1-0 loss at Runcorn Linnets less than 24 hours earlier.

The club have cited “economic reasons” behind the departure, with Bay having to significantly reduce their budget after the resignation of chairman Dave Titchiner due to ongoing health issues.

Current assistant Craig Hogg, who has been a mainstay of Morgan’s backroom staff at both Bay and Llandudno, has agreed to take over on a caretaker basis and coach Neil Coverley will be promoted to the role of assistant.

A club spokesman, said: “Colwyn Bay Football Club can today confirm that it has regrettably parted company with first team manager Alan Morgan due to economic reasons.

“The club would like to place on record its thanks to Alan for all his efforts during his time with Colwyn Bay and wish him all the best for the future.

“Assistant manager Craig Hogg has agreed to take charge of first team affairs, supported by coach Neil Coverley, while the board considers its options.”

Morgan took charge at the Four Crosses Construction Arena last year and spearheaded them to an unlikely playoff, which saw them narrowly miss out on a top six berth during the run-in despite a spirited effort that left everyone associated with club optimistic ahead of the upcoming campaign.

The club will be holding a special question and answer session evening for supporters will be held on Thursday, September 13 at 7.30pm in the clubhouse.