GRANT Sandison has left Vale of Leithen following yesterday’s 2-1 defeat to Gala Fairydean Rovers at Netherdale.

Sandison took over in October last year with the club stranded at the foot of the table and no points on board.

The club had suffered a number of heavy defeats including a 13-0 home defeat to Bonnyrigg Rose.

Since then he has led the side to draws against Gretna 2008 and East Kilbride and a victory over Bo’ness United as well as some creditable performances against Rose in the return fixture and others.

Vale are currently six-points behind second bottom Gretna 2008 with five games remaining.

The club are now looking for an interim manager to take charge next week for their League Cup match at home to Gala Fairydean Rovers.

A process to find a new manager has begun.

Peeblesshire News: Action from Gala Fairydean Rovers v Vale of Leithen Picture: Thomas Brown Action from Gala Fairydean Rovers v Vale of Leithen Picture: Thomas Brown

A statement published online by Vice Chairman Michael Hogarth read: “The committee and everyone at the Vale would like to thank Grant for the role he has played at the club since taking over as manager in September 2021.

“Personally, I would like to  thank Grant for all he has done during his time at the Vale.

"Grant took over at a very difficult period for the club and has since raised the bar and standards during this time with the club- recruiting a young, fit and determined squad that are more than capable of competing within the league.

“Grant leaves us with a fighting chance of survival and has also brought respectability back to the playing side and club.

"I know leaving the Vale was a difficult decision for Grant and while we are disappointed to lose him, we respect his decision to move on.

"Grant has been a fantastic ambassador for our club and we wish him every success for the future."

“Assistant manager Ryan Brady will leave to join Stirling Albion 18s at the same time. Again we thank Ryan for his efforts in his time at the Vale and wish him well for the future.

“ An interim coach(s) is now the main effort of the club to be put in place prior to next Saturdays fixture, taking charge of first-team matters until a new manager is appointed.

“The Vale committee has already begun the formal process of recruiting a new manager and will provide a further update in due course.”