Rob Smith in tribute to 'Mr AFC Telford' Lee Carter

Boss Smith has been appointed twice by Carter as Bucks manager, leading the reformed club to promotion to National League North in his first spell in charge.

But Carter is to step down in three months time to spend more time on family and work commitments.

"I'm disappointed but glad to see he's staying on as a director so he'll still be around the place because he's 'Mr AFC Telford'," said Smith. "He's the face of the club really.

"I didn't see it coming. I'm disappointed really because he's a friend of mine as well. I get on with him really well and we have a relationship out of football.

"The first time around we had so much success together and as a manager involved on a day to day basis he was just fantastic.

"He was a supporter as well so to get that success was brilliant.

"Unfortunately the club fell on hard times and he's been through the mill too much and he's got other interests.

"I totally understand that but he'll be sorely missed by everyone."

Chairman Ian Dosser says Carter's decision is solely to spend more time on family and work commitments and that the club is not involved in any takeover talks.

He paid his own tribute, saying: "Lee has made a massive contribution which will never be forgotten."

Smith added: "The only assurances I've had is to carry on as normal.

"Lee will still be around in August anyway so nothing will change from that perspective and it's all systems go and positive."