PROMOTION-winning manager Russ Penn has been axed by Kidderminster Harriers after the club's National League struggles this season.

The Aggborough side sit bottom of the the table seven points from safety after just four wins from the first 28 games in the 2023-24 competition with 18 fixtures left.

Penn, 38, took over in February 2020 after the midfielder had enjoyed two playing spells with Harriers and an interim spell in charge.

He guided them to a stunning promotion in 2022-23 with a nine-game victorious run in National League North, including winning all three play-off games away from home.

Harriers chairman and owner Richard Lane said: “This is a difficult decision to have taken but one we feel is necessary in our current circumstances.

"Nonetheless, Russ leaves us with our full respect and will always be welcome at Kidderminster Harriers.

“I want to place on record the thanks of everyone associated with our club to Russ for his tremendous effort and dedication over the last few years and the incredible memories we will all keep with us."

Penn's departure comes only three weeks after former Wimbledon striker and ex-Newport County boss Dean Holdsworth became Harriers' first technical director.

As well as playing in more than 200 games for Harriers, Penn also turned out for Burton Albion, Cheltenham Town, York City, Carlisle United and Gateshead.

He replaced Jimmy Shan as Harriers' manager and, as well as promotion, guided Harriers to the FA Cup fourth round in 2021-22 and a last-gasp defeat to Premier League giants West Ham United in extra-time after beating Championship outfit Reading on the way.

But this season Harriers have struggled again for goals and crucially points with Saturday's 2-0 defeat at Rochdale proving to be Penn's last game in charge.

All four promoted teams from last season currently make up the National League relegation zone with Harriers behind Fylde, Oxford City and Ebbsfleet United.

Harriers said they would provide a further update on the managerial position in due course and with no further comment until that time.

The position of Penn's assistant Jimmy O'Connor and the question of who may take charge of Harriers for Saturday's FA Trophy home tie with Altrincham remain unclear.