Wilkinson's second spell as Grantham manager began in May 2007

Grantham Town manager John Wilkinson has been relieved of his duties following a string of poor results.

The Unibond League club's board took the decision after five defeats in their last six games, during which time the Gingerbreads conceded 23 goals.

Chairman Roger Booth said: "The results and performances recently have not been acceptable either to John or the club."

But Booth added that he would like Wilkinson to stay at the club, and had offered him a place on the board.

Wilkinson, who was in his second spell at the Meres, led Grantham to the Unibond First Division South play-offs last season.

But they have struggled in the current campaign following a number of squad changes and a cut in the playing budget.

Booth said: "The board felt that the time was right to make a change at the top.

"Everybody has a lot of respect for what John has achieved, but feel that we need a new manager to take things forward on the pitch.

"Last season John brought the feel good factor back to Grantham and we feel he still has a lot to contribute to the club in different ways."