GOSPORT Borough have reached the end of an era with the departure of manager Alex Pike.

After 12 eventful years at Privett Park, Pike has paid the price for a point-less start to the Evo-Stik South Premier season and Saturday’s home defeat by Swindon Supermarine in the FA Cup.

Prior to the financial problems that have dogged the club in recent seasons, Pike performed miracles to lead Borough on a fairytale ride from the Wessex League to the Conference South - plus that never-to-be-forgotten FA Trophy final appearance at Wembley in 2014.

Despite all the recent troubles enveloping the club, he stuck by Borough in an attempt to turn their flagging fortunes around, but new chairman Iain Sellstrom believes it’s time for a change.

Sellstrom said: “This has been a very difficult decision given Alex’s loyalty to the club over the past 12 years.

"I have very much enjoyed working with Alex since I took office, but it is my duty to put the club’s long-term interests first as my primary consideration.

“Everyone connected with Gosport Borough should recognise the effort and commitment Alex has brought to his role as manager of this special club.”

Assistant boss Danny Thompson has agreed to take temporary control of football matters while the board begin the search for a replacement.