CARL Heeley has stepped down as Worcester City manager after seven years in charge of the club.

City’s long serving boss’ exit has been confirmed after he held a meeting with the club’s board where he explained his decision to quit.

John Snape will take temporary charge of the Vanarama National League North outfit and will be assisted by captain Danny Jackman.

Heeley's decision comes after he was left "embarrassed" by his side's showing in their 3-0 defeat at Gloucester City and said he was "hurt" by the criticism which had been thrown at him.

Worcester are five points above the relegation zone in 18th place and are on a run of 10 matches without a league win.

A statement from City said Heeley felt "it was time for a change for both himself and the club”.

"It is with sincere regret that Worcester City Football Club must announce long-serving Carl Heeley has stepped down from his position as manager," it said.

"Disappointed in the manner of yesterday’s defeat, Carl met with Anthony Hampson (chairman), Joe Murphy (football secretary/director), and John Snape (assistant manager) to explain his decision.

"Carl felt it was time for a change for both himself and the club.

"In particular, after more than 20 years involvement in the game, Carl would like to change the focus in his life from football to spend more time with his young family.

"The club fully respect and appreciate Carl’s decision and he leaves with our sincere gratitude for the outstanding commitment he, and his family, have dedicated to this football club over a long period of time."

Since replacing Richard Dryden, Heeley has kept Worcester in the sixth tier for seven successive seasons despite the club’s financial restrictions and being in exile.

He has also led the Blue and Whites to the second round of the FA Cup in 2014 after beating Coventry City at the Ricoh Arena and reached the first round a year later.

However, speaking after City’s heavy loss to Gloucester at Whaddon Road, he admitted the position had “taken over" his life and felt he had been “neglecting” his family.

“It’s non-stop,” he said.

“I have got a young family and it is maybe time to reassess because I am a little bit embarrassed by that performance.

“The chairman of this football club is a lovely man and he doesn’t get any thanks for anything he does.

“He gets continually criticised and I am starting to get continually criticised and quite frankly I have got far better thing to do with my life, like look after my family and spend quality time with my daughters.”

The club statement added: “Carl always wears his heart on his sleeve, and his honesty in deciding it was time to step down is reflective of the man he is.

“The club would like to thank Carl for all his hard work and wish him all the best for the future and the Heeley family will of course always be made welcome at the City.

“Clearly the club must now consider its options, but John Snape will aid the club in the short term, assisted by club captain Danny Jackman, whilst a replacement is sought.”