Falmouth Town’s captain James Ward has announced he is leaving the club, describing it as “purely a footballing decision” and praising “the best fans in the world.”

He first joined the club in 2018 and has been an instrumental player in Town’s success over the years, interspersed with brief spells playing for Truro City and Plymouth Parkway.

Ward captained Falmouth over the successful 2023/24 season, which saw Town promoted from the South West Peninsula League to the Southern League this season.

However, Ward said he recently had time to “re-evaluate” and had taken the decision to leave.

The club confirmed his departure with a statement on its website last night, which reads: “James Ward has decided to leave Falmouth Town.

“James has been a stalwart for the club since he joined in 2018. Known to the fans as ‘Wardy’, he has captained the team and saw us through our journey from the South West Peninsula League to the Southern League.

“He has also been an instrumental player during our cup exploits over the last six years. Everyone at Falmouth Town would like to thank him for his service and we wish well in the future.”

Explaining his decision in a post on social media, Ward wrote: “Hi all, yes unfortunately I didn’t think I would be writing this message (again).

“The period away has given me time to re-evaluate and believe that I’ve run my course with the club. We’ve taken it to levels I never thought would be possible and everyone has been on the journey with me. The best fans in the world.

“This was just purely a footballing decision and [I] do wish everyone the best and to see you soon, just in a different capacity.”

Signing off as ‘Wardy’, he concluded: “Much love and thank you to everyone for making the time so special.”