Newell took over in November

The club have announced that they will not be renewing his contract despite leading them to promotion.

A statement on the club's website said: "Hartlepool United announced that manager Mike Newell would not be having his fixed-term contract renewed with the club.

"The club wishes Mike success with his future plans and thanks him for his contribution to the promotion-winning team during the 2002-2003 season.

"There will be no further statement from the club."

Newell took over midway through the season after previous boss Chris Turner left for Sheffield Wednesday.

He won the manager of the month award in only his second month in charge after guiding the north-east club to an eight-point lead in the Third Division.

But they ended the season poorly and missed out on the Third Division title to Rushden, but held on for automatic promotion after finishing second.