Lee Allinson stepped down as Hendon first team manager yesterday evening after more than five years in charge at Silver Jubilee Park to explore opportunities at a higher level.

After joining the club in November 2019, Lee steadied the ship before COVID intervened, leading us to mid-table safety. After winning the London Senior Cup in 2020 against Brentford B, Lee ensured we remained at Step 3 through two difficult seasons in the Southern League, before an impressive 10th place finish last season, in addition to another London Senior Cup final and that glorious afternoon at Oldham Athletic.

Lee leaves us 7th in the Isthmian League Premier Division, after an excellent start in a competitive division.

On leaving, Lee said "After five incredible years, with a heavy heart I have made the decision to leave Hendon FC, a club I have truly loved and where I’ve created memories I’ll never forget.

I want to express my thanks to Simon for giving me the opportunity to manage this fantastic club and for being an outstanding Chairman. To Cyrus and Jo, thank you for continuing the great work as Chairman and for always supporting me. To John Rogers and Jeremy for the endless hardwork and constant support. To the media team, Elsie, Paul, and Soloman, a big thank you for all your great work building social media.

A special thank you to Sandra and Tony, Nina and Roger, Lee Cousins, Ted, Alex, Felix, Steve Lytton, Derek, Nigel, Tom, Tim, and trouble & trouble, my dugout fans, and to Ian and Maria, and all the staff at SJP. There is too many to mention. Thank you for supporting me and treating my family with such kindness. We will always be Hendon FC fans. It’s a special club.

To all the players that have played for me. I appreciate you all. Thank you for your hard work. To my current squad, I’m going to miss you all. Keep running through brick walls for the club the way you have been.

I leave the club as the Team of the Month for November, and the Golden Glove award. I will never forget the incredible moments we’ve shared: The FA Trophy run and the game at Oldham, winning the London Senior Cup, achieving our highest-ever finish in the Southern Premier League, and leaving the team in a strong position to keep pushing for the playoffs.

Finally, a special thanks to my backroom staff – Marc, Caolan, Corey, Chad, and Sophie – thank you for your hard work and dedication. To my wife, son, and two daughters. Thank you for all your hard work at the club and support.”

The board will take time to reflect before making their next move. However, we're delighted that Marc Charles-Smith has agreed to take temporary charge for the time being, with Dave Diedhiou and Caolan South continuing to assist