Cymru Premier club announce abrupt exit of long-serving boss

Newtown have parted company with long-serving boss Chris Hughes by mutual consent.

The 44-year-old has been at Latham Park since November 7 2013 and in that time has overseen more than 350 matches.

Newtown are guaranteed a top-six finish this season but when they line up against TNS on Saturday (January 13) in the final game of Phase One, there will be a different name in the dugout.

The Mid-Wales side have yet to announce who will take interim charge but for the first time in over a decade, it will not be Hughes.

A club statement read: “The board of directors at Newtown announces that Chris Hughes is departing from his role as first-team manager by mutual consent.

“After a successful decade with the club, this decision marks the end of a significant era for Newtown AFC.

“Chris has been instrumental in establishing Newtown AFC as a steadfast team within the Cymru Premier. Through his guidance, the team has achieved consistent performances with the team often finishing in the top 6 of the league, and on three occasions experiencing European football. 

“The board expresses profound gratitude to Chris for his unwavering dedication over the past ten years. His contributions have been pivotal to the club’s achievements and have left a lasting impact on the club.

“As Chris moves on, we wish him the utmost success in his future endeavours. His legacy at Newtown AFC will be remembered with great respect and appreciation.”

Hughes managed Newtown in three European campaigns and recorded wins against Valletta and HB Torshavn respectively. His highest recorded finish whilst in charge as Newtown was third in the 2021/22 season.

They are the second club that is now on the search for a first-team manager. Pontypridd United and Andrew Stokes parted company earlier this month, and they have yet to name a replacement.

(Pic by John Smith/FAW)