CANARIES BOSS STANDS DOWN Burke bowing out a legend
HITCHIN TOWN legend Mark Burke says he has been honoured to manage the Canaries for 11 years – but now is the right time to hand over the baton.
The long-serving boss stepped down this week after a run of 11 defeats for the Southern Premier Central outfit.
Burke will continue in his roles of company secretary and head of community at the club he served so well as a player too.
He made 732 appearances for the Hertfordshire outfit and captained their FA Cup giant-killing sides in 1994 and 1995 as well as to two promotions.
Having been assistant to Carl Williams, he took over as manager at the start of the 2014-15 campaign and twice guided his side to the Southern League Premier play-offs.
They lifted the Southern League Cup in 2018 and also reached the FA Cup first round proper under his stewardship for the first time in 23 years.
But following Saturday’s 1-0 defeat to AFC Sudbury, Burke decided to step aside with a “heavy heart”.
In a statement he wrote: “It has been an honour and absolute privilege to manage my beloved football club for nearly 11 years but the time is right to step aside.
“I feel by announcing my resignation now it will allow the club time to make an informed appointment and give the new manager enough time to adjust the squad as they see fit and ultimately secure the club’s future in the Premier League.
“I have some fantastic memories to take away with me from my time as an assistant manager and manager.
“I was very proud of assisting Charlie gain promotion back to the Premier League and the 11 seasons I have had as manager at this level. I have enjoyed being the underdog and punching well above our weight when competing against other huge clubs.
“I am very proud of the many players I think I have helped on their way to successful careers and, also the ones I have helped enjoy and prolong their twilight years.
“I have made lots of new friendships along the way and many that will last after my time in football.”
Burke took to the dug-out for a final time on Friday evening as he managed the
Hitchin Town side against a Luton Town XI as part of long-serving secretary and treasurer Roy Izzard’s testimonial.
Tribute
As well as Izzard, Burke thanked chairman Andy Melvin as well as his backroom teams from down the years, paid tribute to the groundstaff, supporters trust, media team and the fans before reserving special mention for those closest to him.
“Most importantly I would like to thank my family who have been with me every step of the way, especially my wife Marion who has made so many sacrifices during both my playing and managerial career over our 35-year marriage,” he said. “I am truly thankful for having you by my side.
“My children Hannah and Kieran who have grown up at Top Field and given me so much support and finally, my Mum and Dad who has also been with me all the way.”
Friendships