One of the East Midlands’ best-known non-league football clubs is heading into a period of uncertainty after Matlock Town owner David Hilton announced he is looking to sell the club following the resignation of manager Lewis Duckmanton, who says abuse directed at him and his players played a part in his decision to step down.
Hilton said he was “deeply saddened” by the treatment Duckmanton received after a recent match, claiming both the manager and members of the playing squad were subjected to abuse, threats and intimidation.
The fallout has prompted the businessman to begin seeking buyers for the Derbyshire club, although he insists there will be no immediate changes to its day-to-day operations.
In a resignation statement, Lewis Duckmanton said recent results and performances had fallen below expectations and that, as manager, he felt responsible. But he also admitted the level of abuse he had experienced influenced his decision to walk away.
“This job has never been about money,” he said. “It has always been about the club, you, and everyone involved.”
Despite being offered further support by Hilton, Duckmanton ultimately decided he could no longer continue in the role. The club owner described him as “one of the genuinely good people in this industry” and said he was highly regarded by staff throughout the organisation.
According to David Hilton, the situation went beyond criticism from the terraces. He claimed players were subjected to direct abuse and threats of violence, while food intended for the squad was allegedly stolen after the match. Stewards attempting to intervene were also reportedly targeted.
The club says those responsible represent a small minority of supporters but has now moved to impose immediate lifetime bans on anyone found to have been involved.
Hilton has also said Matlock Town will contact opposing clubs ahead of away fixtures and ask them to refuse entry to individuals linked to the incidents.
“Non-league football in this country is unique,” he said. “It has always been family-orientated, and that is precisely why we all love it.”
The owner added that the events had forced him to question whether he wanted to remain involved with the club long term.
For now, however, Hilton says Matlock Town remains financially stable and debt-free, and that he will continue supporting the club until a new owner is found.
Interested buyers are already being invited to come forward, though Hilton suggested an alternative option could involve a future supporter-led model once existing contracts and commitments come to an end.
“In the meantime, nothing changes,” he said. “My commitment is there, and I will continue to try during the time I have left to get us promoted.”
The club has yet to announce who will replace Duckmanton in the dugout.
Hilton took full control of Matlock Town in April 2025 after a supporters’ ballot backed a move to private ownership. Before arriving at the Gladiators, he owned Scunthorpe United and served as chairman of Ilkeston Town.
