Bangor City 1876 manager Michael Johnston has resigned from his position with immediate effect due to increasing work and family commitments.

The club confirmed the news following Friday night’s 2–1 victory over Brickfield Rangers, a result which leaves Bangor second in the Novira Cymru North table after four consecutive league wins.

Johnston, affectionately known as “Johno” by supporters, has been a central figure at the club since arriving as a player in the summer of 2019. He became joint manager in February 2020 before taking sole charge of the first team in 2022.

Announcing his departure, Bangor City 1876 said Johnston had made the difficult decision to step away because he was no longer able to dedicate the time required to the role.

The club said: “While we are naturally disappointed to see him leave, the club fully understands and respects his decision, and Johno departs with nothing but our gratitude and very best wishes.”

During his time in charge, Johnston guided Bangor through several promotions, culminating in last season’s memorable treble-winning campaign and the club’s return to the Cymru North.

Bangor have made an impressive start following their promotion. After suffering a stoppage-time 2–1 defeat against Bala Town on the opening night, City responded with four consecutive victories, including tonight’s 2–1 victory against league leaders Brickfield Rangers. Bangor currently sit second in the Cymru North.

Johnston’s association with football in Bangor stretches back much further. He first arrived in the city from Liverpool in 2007, joining the former Bangor City on loan before making the move permanent.

He remained with the club until 2015, captaining the side and becoming a firm favourite with supporters at both Farrar Road and Bangor City Stadium. As a player, he helped Bangor win the Welsh Premier League title in 2011 and lift the Welsh Cup on three occasions.

When the supporter-founded Bangor 1876 was established in 2019, Johnston returned to help build a new chapter for football in the city.

Paying tribute, the club described him as a player, leader and integral part of Bangor’s football story.

The statement added: “Johno first arrived in our city as a lad from Liverpool. He leaves his role as an honorary Bangor lad — and, most importantly, a friend to so many and a hero to a generation of supporters.

“Diolch, Johno.”

Assistant manager Sean Eardley will take charge of the team for Monday’s game against Mold Alexandra and the fixtures immediately following it.