Peter Mulcaster has decided to quit as manager of second division Horden.

Mulcaster decided that he should step down following the defeat by Morpeth on Boxing Day, a setback that left Horden in second bottom place.

“No wins in 18 games mean that something new is needed. Following a meeting with the chairman Norman Stephens we decided that it is in the best interest of the club that a new face is a required," he said.

Mulcaster has been involved in management for nearly 30 years, at several clubs. He took over in February last season from Bobby Orton, and guided the club to safety, but on a zero playing budget, the club has struggled to win games this season.

Horden secretary John Stubbs said: “With great integrity Peter has decided to step down as manager. The club cannot thank Peter enough for his dedication, professionalism and sheer love for the club and the game."

The club has moved quickly to appoint a successor in Darren "Nobby" Atkinson, a long serving Horden player over two spells. Atkinson spent several years of his career at the club when they were in the first division.