THE man in charge of Redditch Council has been suspended from Redditch United Football Club following allegations of bullying and harassment.

A letter was sent out to parents saying that the club was investigating the conduct of under 14s coach Matt Dormer and that he is currently suspended from the club.

He has strongly denied the allegations, which he said were designed to cause him maximum embarrassment, and said that he had stepped down from the role.

The letter said that a panel had been set up to investigate the allegations and while that is being conducted it would be inappropriate for Mr Dormer to continue to coach or have any involvement in the under 14 girls team.

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A statement from Mr Dormer said: "I’ve been made aware of bullying and harassment allegations made against me by an individual member of staff at Redditch United Football Club.

"I wish to stress these allegations are completely false and malicious, designed to cause me maximum embarrassment.

"I will be cooperating with the panel established by the club to look at the claims to ensure I clear my name as quickly as possible."

He added: "Regardless, I had stepped down previously from my role to focus on my work as leader of Redditch Borough Council. This follows on from my resignation earlier in the year from the club’s board of directors."

A spokesman from Redditch United said they were unable to comment at this time.