After securing a treble of cup trophies for Flackwell Heath, Graham Malcolm says the timing is right for him to step down as manager.

A 2-1 win over Pitstone & Ivinghoe in the Wycombe Senior Cup last Thursday added to the Hellenic League Challenge Cup and Berks & Bucks Senior Cup trophies secured by the Heathens earlier in the campaign.

The success, which came by virtue of goals from Joe Blount and Joey Gritt, made it six trophies in three years for the club, and Malcolm, who is moving to Spain, feels the timing of his departure could not be better.

“I think the great thing about it is the timing of everything, it has really worked well that we have done so well before I leave,” Malcolm explained.

“I move to Spain and Shoney [assistant manager Paul Shone] can take over a successful team with experienced players, so the timing really does work well for everyone.”

While Thursday’s tight scoreline would suggest an even game, Flackwell were in dominant mood throughout their season crowning moment.

Their control and composure in such a high-pressure situation delighted Malcolm, and he took the time to praise the work of everyone involved at the club for what is an undeniably impressive achievement.

“It is great. Everybody played to get the three trophies and we are beyond delighted to win another cup fairly comfortably and secure the treble,” Malcolm said.

“I would put it on parity with winning the league last year. We had more time to focus on the league last year, so winning a treble is a tremendous achievement and is not something that happens too often.

“I am happy for a lot of people at the club. Believe me there are a lot of people behind the scenes who work really hard and this win is for them as well.”

Malcolm is right to highlight the enormity of the Heathens’ achievement, which he says did not fully hit him until the club’s presentation evening.

Having guided Flackwell with such distinction it will be impossible for Malcolm to completely cut ties with the club.

Indeed, a place on the board ensures he won’t, and he says he will keep a constant eye on the team’s progress.

And as for the post-Malcolm era? Well the man himself insists he will not miss certain aspects of the job and is confident that in Paul Shone Flackwell have a manager who can continue their success.

“I won’t miss those cold Saturday fixtures and I won’t miss this time of year when you are chasing players,” Malcolm said.

“I am delighted that Shoney got the job. It was always important that the club kept moving forward and I think they will be able to do that with him in charge.”