Management team confirmed in overhaul

Tony Beckingham and John-Paul Collier were confirmed as the new joint first team managers of East Grinstead Town on Friday as part of a major shake-up at the Ryman South club.

Both have been working with the team since the departure of former manager Simon Funnell earlier this month and will take charge for the first time on a permanent basis on Saturday when the Wasps host Redhill in league action at East Court.

In a statement released by the club, officials said Collier would continue in his playing role as will Marc Cumberbatch who has been appointed first team coach.

In addition, Mark Dacey has joined the club in a coaching role and Ray Tolfrey has taken on the new post of director of football. His duties will include scouting new players for former Holmesdale, Lingfield, Phoenix Sports and Croydon manager Beckingham, pictured, now in his second spell managing the Wasps and Collier.

Chairman Richard Tramontin said: "In the last couple of weeks we have had lengthy discussions with Tony and the most important thing to emerge from our discussions is that his vision for this football club and that of his staff matches ours.

"Tony has made a positive impression in his first two weeks including two excellent league results and we're delighted that he will be continuing in the role alongside JP, who still has a lot to offer as a player as well.

"Both JP and Marc are working towards their UEFA A coaching licenses and Ray has a wealth of experience at this level and will be working hard to bring in the right type of players that will improve the club.

"Our aim this season is simple - to make sure we stay in the Ryman League. We have worked extremely hard as a club to reach the highest level in our long history and all our focus is on making sure we maintain it."

He added: "I'm sure everyone at the club, including our supporters, will get behind Tony, JP and their staff and we look forward with confidence to the future."

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