Meakin's the man for Wingate

Club chairman Aron Sharpe said: "I received many phone calls and emails regarding the job. However, there were only certain managers that I wanted to talk to and I was fortunate that I have had the opportunity to chat formally with four tremendously talented young managers. Dave Norman was always going to be a hard act to follow but I have the right man to replace him in Gary Meakin.

"As I have always said, the club is one that develops players and managers to fulfill their potential and play attractive football.

"I will always look for people who rely on their own ability to spot talent in youngsters and players who have not yet received the opportunity to play at Ryman Premier level - Gary promotes these elements of youth development and playing attractive football. I am also thankful for the manner in which the Northwood chairman has handled our discussions this week."

Meakin was appointed Northwood manager in March 2011, moving from a similar role at Hillingdon Borough. He had taken over a struggling Hillingdon side late in the season and guided them to unlikely survival, before achieving an almost identical feat when he was snapped up by Northwood after the following season. Last season Northwood only missed out on the play-offs on the final day of the season, and were finalists in the Middlesex County Cup.

He enjoyed a playing career that took him into the Conference. It included three spells with Northwood, and he also played for North Greenford United, Hendon, Doncaster Rovers, Telford United, Walton Casuals and Harrow Borough.

Meakin moved into coaching and management at an early age after retiring through injury. Derek Lewis will join him in a coaching capacity.