On the eve of their Midlands Football Alliance campaign, Westfields have parted company with manager John Layton.
Layton, a former Hereford United player, is unable to commit himself to the role and leaves the allpay.park club by mutual consent after just one season in charge.
Westfields’ chief executive Andy Morris said the decision was reached after a meeting between Layton and club representatives last week.
“John helped the club out last season and we always knew it would be a short term agreement,” he said.
“John’s recent commitments have ensured that he cannot fully commit himself to a full season with Westfields.”
Layton guided Westfields to the HFA Senior Cup last season in a campaign which included a memorable win over Hereford United.
“John is a first-class coach and a very professional person,” added Morris.
“We wish him every success wherever he goes this season. He is certainly capable of coaching at a professional level and we all wish him the best of luck.”
Westfields director of football Sean Edwards will take over as manager, with Joey Rawle continuing as assistant manager.
Meanwhile, the club’s preparations for the coming season ended on a high when they club dispatched Hellenic League Premier Division side Fairford Town 2-0 in their final pre-season fixture.
Playing on a beautifully prepared allpay.park pitch, the home side almost raced into an early two-goal lead but Lee Mussell’s shot fired over the bar and Paul Allam’s effort hit the side netting.
Westfields broke the deadlock midway through the first half when Mark Davis pounced on Lee Mussell’s rebounded shot to fire the home side in front.
The Fairford crossbar prevented Jamie Cuss and Roy Jordan adding to Westfields’ lead, while at the other end John Pugh saved from the spot after Ashley Day had brought down the visiting striker.
After the break Westfields started to press the action and increased their lead with penalty by Jamie Cuss after Paul Allam had been upended in the area.
Fairford continued to attack but found their raids repelled by the Westfields defence, who held out to win 2-0.
They could even have made it three, but substitute Paul Jones side-footed wide from six yards.
This Saturday Westfields open their Midland Football Alliance season with a home game against Kirby Muxloe, the Leicestershire Senior League champions (3pm).