HAKAN Ramis-Hayrettin believes he is leaving Waltham Forest in good hands and hopes that the structure at the club will be taken on for the club to reach new heights.

Hayrettin (pictured) is departing after three years with the Stags to manage Conference South side Thurrock.

He said: "I'm looking forward to my new challenge at Thurrock but I do have a heavy heart in leaving Forest. I had no intention of leaving but the job offer came up and after much deliberation with my family, I decided that it was a chance that I simply could not turn down." Hayrettin said that while there had been several highs and lows, two of the memories that would stand out for him were avoiding relegation and winning the Essex Senior Cup this season.

He said: "I feel that I can say I have left the club in a good and healthy position.

"When I arrived, it was all about trying to avoid relegation on a budget of about £500 a week.

"That, I think to this day, has been our biggest challenge and I'm very proud to say we have come on from that. We just missed out on play-offs this season, but did win a cup. I have learned such a lot. Being a manager is not just about picking the team, pulling on the tracksuit and standing on the sidelines, you are everything to the players.

"At this level you have to do everything, from doing the kit to putting the team out.

"I've had some fantastic people around me and that has helped re-shape this club. There may be changes, but I hope the structure of the club is left.

"Who knows, I may be back some day, but for now, I'm looking forward to my new challenge."