Hednesford Town part company with manager Gavin Hurren

The pair arrived at Keys Park in November 2024 and led the club on a remarkable 21-game unbeaten run in the NPL West Division, transforming them into promotion contenders.

Despite missing out on the title, they did still secure a rise to Step 3 football via the play-offs, defeating Congleton Town 2-0 in front of what was, at the time, a record-breaking crowd of 4,701 at Keys Park.

The club have continued their upward trajectory this season and are joint-top with Hebburn Town at the time of Hurren's departure. 

They are only being kept off the division's summit due to a marginally inferior goal difference, with the two title rivals meeting on Tuesday night at Keys Park.

“This has been one of the most difficult decisions I have had to make since taking ownership of this club," chairman Craig Gwilt explained.

"Gavin and Lee are not just colleagues: I consider them both good friends.

“I will never forget the memories we created last season. That 21-game unbeaten run and the subsequent promotion gave me my first true taste of success in football, and for that, I will be eternally grateful. They took a sleeping giant and truly woke it up.

“However, my responsibility as Chairman is to the long-term future and progression of Hednesford Town.

"While we have sat high in the table for much of this season, our form and performances since November haven’t reflected the level of backing provided. To ensure we meet our ambitions for the remainder of the campaign, we feel a change in direction is now necessary.

“Gavin and Lee leave with their heads held high. They have written themselves into the history books here, and they will always be welcome back at Keys Park.”
 

The club are yet to confirm who will take charge of Tuesday night's top-of-the-table clash.