Former Billericay Town FC owner Glenn Tamplin has quit his latest football project and £10million Essex mansion to start a new life abroad.

Mr Tamplin, 49, took over as the new owner and manager of Romford 16 months ago, having enjoyed success at Billericay.

But, with the coronavirus pandemic resulting in Romford’s Isthmian North season being curtailed, the eccentric millionaire has walked away from the club.

A club statement read: "When Glenn Tamplin became involved in Romford FC in December 2019, no one could have predicted the events that were to unfold across the world.

“This has affected everyone - families, businesses and the wider football community.

"After several conversations we have had with Glenn, we have decided to go our separate ways.

"Glenn is now working and living abroad and cannot devote the time required to push the club forward in the manner he wanted to.

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"We have parted as friends and wished each other well in what comes next.

"The club is grateful for Glenn's involvement at a time when the club's survival was in question."

During Mr Tamplin’s time as the owner of Billericay, the club won the Isthmian Premier League title, along with silverware in the Essex Senior Cup and Isthmian League Cup.

He took control of Billericay in December 2016 and his financial backing saw former Premier League stars such as Paul Konchesky, Jamie O’Hara and Jermaine Pennant head to New Lodge.

However, having completed his takeover of the club in December 2016, Mr Tamplin departed in September 2019.