Darren Mullen has announced he will step down as manager of Newry City at the end of the season.

The 50-year-old has been an integral part of the Newry story since the club reformed a decade ago and, in that time, has been at the helm as they climbed through the divisions including relegation from and a return to the Premiership.

After informing the board of his decision he then told the players at training on Tuesday.

In a statement Mullen said: ""Never in my wildest dreams did I ever think I would be on this journey over the past 10 years.

"It has given both my family and I so many great memories that will last a lifetime.

"I have known for some time that I would be stepping down as manager and there is no better way to leave the club than in the Premiership where they rightfully belong."

Club chairman Martin McLoughlin added: "After we absorb the managers news we will come to realise that today’s announcement marks the end of an era at our club.

"Ten years ago last month we reformed and Darren Mullen was both the instigator as well as being pivotal to that revival.

"As Chairman, and on behalf of our club, I would like to thank Darren and his family for his dedication and total commitment since then. Without doubt enjoying the highs and seeing out the lows during that time has allowed us to become firm friends and I’m absolutely delighted that his tenure as manager has ended with those friendships fully intact.

"Darren leaves us with many great memories. He was very much more than just a football manager and got involved in a lot of issues pertaining to the everyday running of Newry City AFC and for that we are very grateful."

Mullen concludes his tenure following Saturday's trip to face Dungannon Swifts.