Ramsgate have announced the shock departure of manager Steve Lovell.

Rams have been top of Isthmian South East for most of the season under the former Gills boss.

They dropped to second, behind Chatham, after losing 2-0 at Three Bridges at the weekend, and that proved to be Lovell's final game in charge.

"The club can confirm that we have parted company with manager Steve Lovell," said Rams.

"We would like to place on record our sincere thanks to Steve and his assistant Mark (Lovell) for their hard work during their time with us."

Lovell succeeded Matt Longhurst, initially on a temporary basis, towards the end of last season.

He agreed a permanent deal in the summer and appeared to have Ramsgate on course for promotion.