Iron part company with Patterson

Braintree Town manager Lee Patterson has left the club by mutual consent.

The decision follows a meeting held by the club's board of directors on Wednesday to discuss the best way forward for the Blue Square South club.

Assistant manager Bradley Quinton will take over as caretaker manager until a permanent replacement is appointed.

Braintree currently lie 15th in the league and are out of all major cup competitions following Tuesday's 6-2 FA Trophy defeat by Farnborough.

Chairman Lee Harding told the club's website: "It was a very difficult decision for us because we believe we currently have some of the best players that this club has seen.

"That said, we are as bewildered as everyone else as to why it hasn't worked this year.

"I've thoroughly enjoyed working with Lee, what he achieved for us last season was remarkable and he will always be welcome at Cressing Road."

Patterson joined Braintree from East Thurrock United in October 2007, replacing previous manager George Borg.