FRANK LYNCH last night insisted there was no hidden agenda behind his decision to quit as boss of Beith.

After a sensational start to the season following promotion, the Ayrshire club have slid to fifth in the Super League Premier Division, nine points behind leaders Irvine Meadow.

Lynch's departure is a blow for the ambitious Bellsdale Park outfit but the former Arthurlie gaffer had nothing but praise for the the club as he prepares to take time out from the game.

Lynch said: "I know there will be eyebrows raised at my decision to quit but anyone who thinks I have something else lined up is truly mistaken.

"I felt I was cheating the club as my heart wasn't in it. Anyone who knows me will tell you I usually give 100 per cent but unfortunately I wasn't doing that.

"I didn't leave on the spur of the moment. I have been feeling like this for a number of months and if I didn't respect the people at Beith so much I would probably have thrown in the towel a while back.

"It's a fantastic club with guys who are genuinely out to help you as much as possible. I didn't have one problem in the whole 22 months I was there and it's a shame I've had to come to this decision but it is for the best. Beith came calling only six weeks after I left Arthurlie and, looking back, I should maybe have held off before making a return to the game.

"My intentions this time are to relax and spend time watching my boy, Kieran, play. It's been a long time since I've had a Saturday to myself and I plan to make the most of it.

"Not once have I said I won't be back in football. I probably will but it won't be in the near future."

Beith have wasted no time in appointing former No.2 Johnny Millar as boss.

Lynch said "I think the club have made the right move. Johnny knows all the players and is well respected.

"I am confident he will improve the side and there is no doubt he can be a good manager in his own right.

"The quicker he picks up points, the quicker I will probably be forgotten about. I am sure he will do a good job.

"It's maybe the right time for him to take up the challenge of being a manager as we have been together a number of years.

"Although we have parted company we will remain good friends and if he ever wants my advice I will be here to give it to him.

Ed - Gone but never forgotten Frank.