Manager Sensationally Walks Out On Lincoln United After Three Matches

Credit Graham Burrell

The Imps’ city rivals Lincoln United have been rocked this afternoon, as manager Billy Heath resigned just weeks after taking over at the club.

The Whites only sacked Scott Hellewell and his assistant, Paul Grimes, a month ago, turning to the experienced Heath, once linked with a move to Sincil Bank.

That move has now turned sour, with the former Halifax Town and North Ferriby boss walking out on the club, 32 days after his appointment.

A brief club statement confirmed the news.

“It is with regret, that the Board have today accepted the resignation of manager, Billy Heath.

The Board can confirm that Director of Football, Dave Frecklington, will be responsible for preparing the playing squad for our important New Year’s Day fixture, away at Hallam FC.”

The Whites drew their first competitive game with Heath in charge, 1-1 with Bradford Park Avenue, before losing three on the spin.

This weekend, United needed points against Humberside rivals North Ferriby to arrest the poor run, with new signings Charlie Clements and Harvey Cribb starting and Ellis Perry-Burdett named on the bench, but cohesion was lacking on the night. A 1-0 half time deficit was compounded after the break as Ferriby doubled their lead, leaving United on the edge of the relegation battle.

It’s a battle Heath is not going to be in charge of, leaving the Ashby Avenue outfit looking for their third permanent manager of the season.

During his tenure, Heath dispensed with the services of loanee Daniel Vanderpuye, but retained Charlie Carlisle, another young City player. Carlisle was named on the bench for yesterday’s defeat.

Social media has seen some supporters calling for the return of Hellewell and Grimes, who led the club to promotion last season.