FORMER Town boss Brian Horton has parted company with Port Vale by mutual consent after five years in charge.
The former Vale player, in charge of Town from 1995-97, has guided his side to seventh in Division II, just a point off the play-off zone.
His contract was due to expire in the summer.
Vale chairman Bill Bratt said: "We would like to thank Brian for the hard work he has put in at the club in what could best be described as difficult times."
Charlton manager Alan Curbishley has agreed a fresh three-and-a-half-year contract with the club.
The new contract, announced to the Stock Exchange, commits him to The Valley to 2007.
