Tonbridge Angels chair Sophie Purves discusses the search for a new manager as Folkestone Invicta-bound Jay Saunders leaves his position early | Fan-owned Angels exploring private ownership

Manager Jay Saunders has left Tonbridge earlier than planned following news of his appointment at Folkestone.

Saunders was due to see out the season with Angels before taking charge at Cheriton Road in the summer.

But on Monday night Tonbridge released a statement saying it had been “mutually agreed” he would “leave with immediate effect” along with his management team of Tom Parkinson and Lloyd Blackman, who are also joining Invicta.

Captain Scott Wagstaff has been named caretaker manager for Saturday’s home game against Farnborough, assisted by Adam Deadman.

“We thank Jay, Lloyd and Tom for all their efforts and wish them the best for the future. It’s been a real pleasure working with them all,” said Tonbridge chair Sophie Purves.

Tonbridge have interviewed eight candidates to succeed Saunders.

Speaking hours before news of his departure, Purves said “we envisage our new manager starting in the close season, not before”.

But that could now change.

“We’re going through a process at the moment,” said Purves.

“We want to make sure we get the right person, who’s the right fit for the football club.

“We have interviewed eight people, as it stands, and we’re just going to continue in that process.

“We’ve spoken to people who have applied and people we’ve identified, that we think are worth speaking to and they’ve expressed interest as well.

“It’s been an interesting process and we’ve met some really good people.”

Speaking of the qualities Tonbridge are looking for, Purves added: “We are a supporter-owned football club, so respecting the model is important, and understanding how we work as a board.

“We’re very much a united board, so that’s been really helpful.

“I think everyone’s on the same page and we want somebody who’s