Skipper installed as joint boss after Brayley's exit

Burnham Ramblers skipper Stuart Rudd and midfielder Ricky Evans were named on Wednesday as the new joint managers of the relegated Ryman North club following the departure of Bertie Brayley.

Former Great Wakering Rovers midfielder Rudd, 30, and 24-year-old ex-Heybridge Swifts star Evans have been handed the reins until the end of the season following the resignation of Brayley 24 hours earlier in the wake of the club's relegation last week.

As the Ramblers prepares for life back in the Essex Senior League next term, officials hope the pair will help stabilise the club over the remaining weeks of the campaign.

"It is hoped that they will both bring some stability to the team for the remainder of the season and help to develop the team going into next season," said the club in a statement confirming their appointment.

Former Basildon United boss Brayley, 32, was installed as manager a week before the season kicked off and stood down on Monday night following a meeting at Leslie Fields that also led to the resignations of chairman William Hannan and secretary Sean Pugh.

Former Chelmsford City, Canvey Island, Braintree Town, Concord Rangers, Great Wakering Rovers, Billericay Town and ex-West Ham United FA Youth Cup winner Brayley, pictured, said: “I feel it is only fair for a new manager to take the remainder of the season’s games to prepare for next season’s campaign.

"I would like to wish everybody at the club the very best for the future and would also like to thank Billy [Hannan] and Shaun [Pugh] for this opportunity.”

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