Margate "suspend" Kinnear and Raine with "immediate effect"

Following their 1-1 draw with Windsor & Eton at Hartsdown Park this evening, Margate have “suspended” both Chris Kinnear and assistant Kevin Raine with immediate effect - thus ending the pairs long association with the club.

A statement issued by the Ryman Premier League club -  four points clear of fourth from bottom side Hendon - said: “At a specially convened meeting held after the Windsor & Eton game the club directors informed Chris Kinnear and assistant manager Kevin Raine that they have both been suspended from their duties with immediate effect.

“The decision taken reflects the run of poor results since Christmas and the clubs unacceptable position at the bottom of the Ryman Premier League this season.

“The directors acknowledge the huge vote of thanks due to Chris Kinnear for the success over the last decade and Chris will go down as the club’s most successful manager in recent history.

“The club will seek to appoint a caretaker manager and will advertise the vacant position immediately.”

*  The club has appoined defender Robin Trott as caretaker manager until the end of this season. He will take charge from training this evening (Wednesday).

* Margate fans can pay tribute to Chris Kinnear by sending us their views via the “Contact us” button on the home page.