Murray leaves Kidderminster to become Barrow boss

Adam Murray has left Kidderminster Harriers, three days after guiding them back into the National League, to take charge of Barrow.

Harriers said on Tuesday that a club "presently in the English Football League" had triggered a release clause in the 44-year-old's contract and, later in the day, Barrow confirmed they had appointed Murray on a deal until the summer of 2028.

The Bluebirds were relegated from League Two on the final day of the campaign and, like Kidderminster, will play in the National League next season.

Barrow chairman Paul Hornby said: "We, as the board, identified Adam as a target early due to his track record, current performances and philosophy.

"We had to bide our time, due to his success with Kidderminster this season which extended into the post-season games, but are really pleased to be able to have him on board.

"He's a young, hungry manager but already has a whole range of experiences in England and in Europe, including two promotions into the National League in the past four years."

Five different managers - three full-time and two interim - took charge of Barrow during the 2025-26 season.

Murray, who had previously won promotion to the fifth tier with AFC Fylde, was in his first full season at Aggborough and steered Harriers into the National League North play-offs after a run of six straight wins to end the regular season.

After beating Macclesfield Town in their semi-final tie, Harriers then saw off South Shields in the final on Saturday 2-0 to return to the National League for the second time in four seasons.

In a statement, Harriers acknowledged the timing of Murray's departure "would come as a disappointment to fans following Saturday's promotion".

Chairman Richard Lane added:, external "Adam has been very open and honest with me since the weekend.

"While he was a year into a two-year contract and a project with us here, I fully respect that, given the overall financial package on offer, he feels it is an opportunity for him and his family that he cannot turn down.

"While the timing is unfortunate following such a fantastic end to the season, I am sure we all wish Adam nothing but the best for his future.

"Our focus now is on moving quickly with a managerial appointment that will lead us into a new chapter in our history after promotion."