Margate have presented a financial package that is beyond what Whitstable Town Football Club can responsibly commit to and ultimately Jamie Coyle and Matt Longhurst have chosen to pursue that opportunity

WHITSTABLE TOWN manager Jamie Coyle has dropped a bombshell by quitting the newly-promoted Isthmian League South East Division club to join their League rivals Margate yesterday.

Coyle, 42, and his assistant manager Matt Longhurst have recently ‘agreed’ new two-year contracts to remain at The Belmont after a successful two year stint with the club.

The Oystermen celebrated winning The FA Vase by beating AFC Whyteleafe 2-1 after extra time at Wembley Stadium in May 2025 and comfortably won the Southern Counties East Football League Premier Division title by 19 points last month, by playing a direct brand of football, as well as winning the Kent Senior Trophy, but the lure of Hartsdown Park was too much to ignore.

Margate were looking for a new manager after Ben Greenhalgh left to manage Dartford last Thursday.

“Despite recently agreeing a new two-year term, with contracts in place, we were informed by Jamie (on Thursday) he and Matt have decided to leave Whitstable Town to Join Margate FC,” said a club statement.

“Margate have presented a financial package that is beyond what Whitstable Town Football Club can responsibly commit to and ultimately Jamie and Matt have chosen to pursue that opportunity.

“While we are naturally disappointed by the timing and manner of the decision, particularly after the success and progress achieved together over the past two years, we would still like to place on record our thanks for their contribution during one of the most successful periods in the club’s history.

“The club remains in a strong position both on and off the pitch. Attention will now immediately turn to appointing a new management team as we prepare for the next exciting chapter and the challenge of competing in the Isthmian League next season.

“Everyone at Whitstable Town Football Club remains fully committed to continuing the progress, ambition and community spirit that has helped drive the club forward in recent years.”

Meanwhile, The Football Association released their League Allocations for the 2026-27 season yesterday.

Isthmian League South East Division 2026-2027:
AFC Croydon Athletic, Ashford United, Broadbridge Heath, Cray Valley (Paper Mills), Crowborough Athletic, Deal Town, Eastbourne Town, Erith Town, Faversham Town, Guernsey or Peacehaven & Telscombe, Hastings United, Herne bay, Horley Town, Margate, Merstham, Punjab United, Sevenoaks Town, Sheppey United, Sittingbourne, South Park (Reigate), Steyning Town and Whitstable Town.

Visit Whitstable Town’s website: www.whitstabletownfc.club