Following the mutual decision to part company with Jason Lillis, Terry Sedge and Joe Radford, Ramsgate have moved today to appoint Matt Longhurst as the new first team manager.

The Rams have endured a very disappointing season that has seen them in a relegation battle for the majority of the season. They currently sit in 19th place in the Isthmian South East Division with 11 points from 18 games, one place above the relegation zone.

Worryingly for the Rams, East Grinstead Town are only six points behind them with four games in hand.

The decision to appoint Matt Longhurst means the Rams are on their third manager of the season and he arrives at Southwood Stadium with a remit to ensure Ramsgate’s survival in the division.

Matt will be accompanied by Seb Tidey and Liam Taylor, both joining his coaching staff.

Ramsgate Chairman, James Lawson added

“Matt supports our long term goals, but more importantly he knows this league extensively. We represent an opportunity to apply his skills to a club with greater resources than he has previously worked with.

“I was delighted when Matt highlighted that he felt it was important that we install a coaching team around him from the local area. There are very few people who know local players better than A-License coach Seb Tidey – he has trained many of them for a number of years.

“Likewise, with Liam, until recently he was our U23 manager and has been instrumental in the development of a very talented group of local players.

“As a club we would also like to take this opportunity to thank Jason Lillis, Terry Sedge Joe Radford. It should be recognised that Jason and his management team acted with professionalism and dignity throughout a time of transition at the club.”

Longhurst takes charge of his first game on Saturday when The Rams take on VCD Athletic.