Ramsay promoted after holding the fort

After successfully holding the fort for manager Matt Frew, Ryman North Barkingside have unveiled Mel Ramsay as their new assistant manager.

Ramsay, pictured, and fellow coach John Langton, took over at the end of January while Frew took a short break to consider his future before confirming he was staying on, at least until the end of the season.

Although they suffered a 4-1 loss away to Needham Market, the pair did record an impressive 4-2 success over local rivals Redbridge to boost the club's chances of beating the drop.

Frew, who will return to the touchline on Saturday when his side host Soham Town Rangers, told the Ilford Recorder on Wednesday: "It was a bit weird having to step away for a short time. It made me look at things differently and gave me a chance to think about things.

"I will be doing things differently now and I have spoken to Mel at the weekend. He stayed in charge when I had my break and he has been the one who has been there and steadied the ship.

"When my assistant Steve Munday had to leave earlier in the season we decided to do things without a number two - me, Mel and John Langton would all muck in.

"After looking at things I don’t want to rock the boat. Mel has never been given any recognition as a number two but I spoke to him Saturday and I am going to put him as my number two rather than just a coach. It is still the same role, but he deserves it."

Barkingside chairman Jimmy Flanaghan is delighted that Frew is staying with Ramsay alongside him.

In a statement on the club's website, he said: "Everyone at the club is thrilled that he has decided to do this.

"I would also like to thank Mel Ramsay and the rest of the coaching staff for helping keep the side ticking over whilst Matt was away."

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