Mick Kennedy has tonight quit as Darvel boss after more than four years in charge at Recreation Park.
He led big spending Vale to two league titles, including last year's inaugural West of Scotland Premier League, before being pipped for promotion to the Lowland League.
This season's Scottish Cup triumph over Premier League iants Aberdeen - in the fourth round of the competition - was undoubtedly the highlight of Kennedy's spell in charge.
League form has suffered since, though, with Vale dropping six points behind Beith as their WoSFL title hopes have floundered.
Club President, John Gall, tonight confirmed that Kennedy has left the club with immediate effect.
Gall said: Michael has been an integral part of everything at this Club throughout his tenure and has poured more than just managerial duties into the mix.
"He has been an absolute joy to work alongside over the last four seasons, with memories that will last a lifetime and for that I will always be proud to call Michael a friend.
"The Club will always be the main focus for me and it saddens me that this is the end of the journey.
"Michael has been instrumental in leaving us with good solid foundations both in terms of infrastructure and playing squad that will continue to thrive well beyond his departure.
"I would like to thank Michael for his services and utmost professionalism shown during his time, he will always be a legend ‘doon the brae’ and wish him well for whatever the future may hold.”
Club Captain, Daryl Meggatt, and Craig McEwan will take interim charge of the team until further notice.
