MARK Atkins has resigned as Matlock Town manager after nearly six years in charge.
The 46-year-old stepped down following the Gladiators' 4-0 home defeat to Halesowen Town on Saturday, along with assistant Nick Buxton.
The result has left Matlock second from bottom of the Evo-Stik League Premier Division, only above Belper Town on goal difference.
They have won only one match this season.
Atkins, who won the Premier League title as a player with Blackburn Rovers, was appointed Matlock boss in November 2008.
He saved the club from relegation in his first season and then won the Derbyshire Senior Cup in 2009-10.
Atkins also played for Scunthorpe United, Wolverhampton Wanderers, York City, Doncaster Rovers, Hull City and Shrewsbury Town.
He went on to be assistant manager at Harrogate Town and Stalybridge Celtic before joining Matlock.
