Whitstable Town manager Jamie Coyle and No.2 Matt Longhurst leave to take over at Margate just 11 days after agreeing new two-year contracts with the club

Jamie Coyle has quit as manager of title-winning Whitstable Town to join Margate.

Coyle and assistant manager Matt Longhurst have enjoyed unparalleled success in two years at The Belmont.

They won the FA Vase final at Wembley last season and followed that up this season by winning the Southern Counties East League Premier Division title by 19 points and the Kent Senior Trophy.

But – just 11 days after the club announced they had agreed new two-year contracts with Whitstable – they have left to take charge at Margate.

The Gate were looking for a new boss after player/manager Ben Greenhalgh left, also after previously agreeing to remain in charge, for Isthmian Premier Dartford.

Whitstable will play at the same level as Margate next season, in Isthmian South East, but stated they cannot match the “financial package” in place at Hartsdown Park.

“Despite recently agreeing a new two-year term, with contracts in place, we were informed by Jamie today he and Matt have decided to leave Whitstable Town to join Margate FC,” said a Whitstable statement.

“Margate have presented a financial package that is beyond what Whitstable Town Football Club can responsibly commit to and, ultimately, Jamie and Matt have chosen to pursue that opportunity.

“While we are naturally disappointed by the timing and manner of the decision, particularly after the success and progress achieved together over the past two years, we would still like to place on record our thanks for their contribution during one of the most successful periods in the club’s history.

“The club remains in a strong position both on and off the pitch. Attention will now immediately turn to appointing a new management team as we prepare for the next exciting chapter and the