Ward brothers return with Oystermen

Whitstable Town have handed brothers Jim and Danny Ward the task of leading them into the next Ryman South campaign in August.

The former Ramsgate, Maidstone United and Sittingbourne managerial double act were appointed at The Belmont on Friday morning as successors to Nicky Southall following his departure last week.

The Oystermen say they are delighted to appoint the pair with their history of success in Kent football. Probably best remembered for taking Ramsgate from the bottom of the Kent League all the way to the Ryman Premier play-offs in the year AFC Wimbledon won promotion to the Conference, the duo have also been handed responsibility for the player development of the club’s U18s and U21s.

In a statement announcing their arrival, the Oystermen said: "Planning for next season can now start in earnest; both the club and the Wards are looking forwards with combined optimism.

"The short term goal must be to build on the previous year’s Ryman League performances, measured by the end of season league position, to produce competitive and more consistent team performances. That in turn will attract more supporters through the turnstiles and increases commercial revenue.

"The club have the foundations and ambition to progress but equally we recognise the intensity of the task in hand. On behalf of all at the club, the Chairman Gary Johnson welcomes the Ward brothers to Whitstable Town."