Whitstable Town are pleased to announce that Richard Styles will be the new first team manager. Richard joins us from Tunbridge Wells and will be accompanied by his assistant Dan Morrin.

The club received over thirty applications for the position following the departure of Andy Drury to Isthmian Premier club Margate last Monday. A number of interviews were held during the past week and we have spoken to some very good candidates. We would like to thank all those who applied for their interest.

The board feels that Richard and his team are the best choice for Whitstable at this time as we strive to gain promotion from the SCEFL Premier Division, whilst also continuing to develop the promising young players who are progressing through our youth and academy teams. It is an exciting time for the club with work on the new 3G pitch installation and other ground improvements starting this week.

Richard and Dan were at Tunbridge Wells for three years, having previously been at Lordswood, so have an excellent knowledge of the SCEFL. They are both UEFA B coaches and also work for the Charlton Athletic Community Trust. Richard commented: “We are both delighted to be here. It is a great project and the right time to join the club. It was an opportunity that we just couldn’t turn down. We are proud to be at Whitstable, which is a big club with great fans and we very much look forward to engaging with them and will build a team that they can be proud of.”

We welcome Richard and Dan to Whitstable and look forward to working with them on the project to move the club forward. We plan to give everyone a chance to meet with Richard and Dan at the club in June before pre-season commences. More news will follow.