ASH Causer has stepped down as manager of Cradley Town after a disappointing start to the season.

The Hammers sit fourth from bottom of the West Midlands Premier League with just two wins from their first nine games.

Causer stepped down before Town suffered their seventh loss of the season with a 3-2 home defeat against Haughmond on Saturday.

Cradley have moved quickly to name Chris Butts as the club's new manager.

The former Oldbury United boss steps up from division two and will be supported by coach James Bushell and physio Jack Allen.

A club statement said: "We can confirm that first team manager Ash Causer has resigned from his post with immediate effect.

"We would like to thank him for everything he has done for the club and team and wish him all the best for the future."

Cradley will go to Smethwick Rangers on Wednesday night before a trip to Hereford Lads Club this Saturday.