Tributes have poured in for Danny Plumb after the popular and highly successful manager announced he will leave Harpenden Town at the end of the season.

Herts Advertiser: Harpenden Town v Stotfold - Danny Plumb, manager of Harpenden. Picture: KARYN HADDONHarpenden Town v Stotfold - Danny Plumb, manager of Harpenden. Picture: KARYN HADDON (Image: Archant)

Plumb has had a nine-year association with the club and has been at the helm at Rothamsted Park for the last five.

And despite a 2-0 defeat at home to Stotfold, Harpenden are confirmed as a Spartan South Midlands League Premier Division club for another season.

Herts Advertiser: Harpenden Town v Edgware Town - Harpenden Town manager Danny Plumb in the FA Cup tie. Picture: KARYN HADDONHarpenden Town v Edgware Town - Harpenden Town manager Danny Plumb in the FA Cup tie. Picture: KARYN HADDON (Image: Archant)

That was the cue for Plumb to make his announcement.

He said: “This is the right time to confirm that I will be stepping down as first-team manager at the end of the season.

Herts Advertiser: Harpenden Town v Colney Heath - Harpenden Town manager Danny Plumb (right). Picture: KARYN HADDONHarpenden Town v Colney Heath - Harpenden Town manager Danny Plumb (right). Picture: KARYN HADDON (Image: Archant)

“I’ve been at this club for nine years and I have loved and hated every minute of it.

“From promotion to cup success, losing just one game at home over three seasons, I have been fully supported by the committee and backed 100 per cent by Roman and Steve, two great people.

Herts Advertiser: Harpenden Town v Broxbourne Borough - Harpenden Town manager Danny Plumb. Picture: DANNY LOOHarpenden Town v Broxbourne Borough - Harpenden Town manager Danny Plumb. Picture: DANNY LOO (Image: Archant)

“I will look back on this season with great personal pride. I’ve had some real challenges in my family life but I didn’t walk away from football when that was the sensible option.

“I’ve stuck with it and gave it my absolute all. I’ve no regrets.

Herts Advertiser: Harpenden Town manager Danny Plumb with Sam James, left, and Sam Jenkins, right.Harpenden Town manager Danny Plumb with Sam James, left, and Sam Jenkins, right. (Image: Archant)

“The players and coaches are some great individuals and I hope I’ve made a small difference in their lives with my values and ethics.

“I will always love and support Harpenden Town Football Club.”

Herts Advertiser: Harpenden Town v Stotfold - Harpenden manager Danny Plumb on the touchline. Picture: DANNY LOOHarpenden Town v Stotfold - Harpenden manager Danny Plumb on the touchline. Picture: DANNY LOO (Image: ©2019 Archant)

The club itself tweeted: “Twitter has too few characters to say all we want about Danny.

“The big farewell will be on April 27 and all current and ex-players are invited.”

Some of his current team also had their say on the boss.

Harpenden skipper Steve O’Reilly said: “I’m hugely grateful for the opportunity given to me to play for this great club.

“Always backed me personally, gave absolutely everything for the club and rightly will be considered a club legend.

“Top bloke Danny, enjoy the rest.”

Matt Sutton said: “Legend Danny. Been a pleasure to be involved at Town with you. Top bloke all round and some great memories.”

Even opposition managers were full of praise for him.

Ryan Thompson at Colney Heath said: “No one could of done what you done. Great manager, great to talk to. Come down Heath anytime for a beer and a warm welcome.”