JASON Bristow has left his role as manager of Basingstoke Town with the blessing of everyone at the club.

After 19 years at the Camrose as a player, coach, academy manager, assistant and first team boss, he has joined Eastleigh as assistant to their new manager Ben Strevens.

The Hampshire side play in the league just below League Two, two divisions above Basingstoke.

Bristow is looked upon as the most successful boss of the Dragons, as he guided them twice to the play-offs in the National League South.

Town's Chief executive, David Knight said: “We are disappointed to lose Jason, but he has worked hard for this appointment and like a player we would never stand in anyone ways. He goes with the blessing of all at the club and we wish him all the best at Eastleigh.”

Bristow returned to the hot seat at the start of this season with Terry Brown taking on the role of Director of Football.

With Bristow's departure Brown will return as manager and Dan Brownlie will continue as assistant.

At present Town are not looking for a replacement and Brown is the ideal man to take over as he knows all the squad from his time in charge last season.

Brown paid tribute to Bristow and said: "J has been a great servant of this club and is also a nice man. He deserves this opportunity and I hope it goes well for him."

Brown first game back in charge will certainly be a baptism of fire, as Town face a visit from high flying Isthmian side Enfield Town in the second qualifying round of the FA Trophy on Saturday.