FORMER boss Phil Simkin is a shock contender for the vacant manager’s hot seat at Hamworthy United.

The Daily Echo can exclusively reveal that Simkin, sacked after two-and-a-half years in charge of Southern League Dorchester Town in August 2014, is one of six applicants for the job.

Chairman Mark Bartlett also confirmed that Simkin had expressed an interest in replacing Graham Kemp – the man who stepped into his role at Dorchester – at the County Ground in September but later withdrew his application.

Simkin suffered an acrimonious end to his five-year stint with United back in September 2009 following a bitter and public spat with then-chairman Bruce Scammell.

Scammell still serves as deputy chairman on the club’s committee but current chief Bartlett insists the matter is in the past.

“A hell of a lot of water has gone under the bridge since then,” said Bartlett. “Everyone has moved on.

“Things were said in what was a tough spell for everyone at the club but a few years have passed and we have to get on with it.

“People look at what happened towards the end of Phil’s time at Dorchester and hastily forget what he achieved there, especially in the FA Cup. His CV reads well.”

Reserve-team boss Shane Traynor, who has been handed the reins for Saturday’s trip to Totton & Eling (3pm), has also thrown his hat into the ring.

Bartlett politely declined to name the other four candidates due to their commitments to other clubs but added: “We have received applications from people currently working in the Wessex League, the Dorset Premier League and one from a higher level.”

All six will be interviewed with Hammers hoping to name their new man in time for the home match with Whitchurch United on Saturday, January 10.

  • Elsewhere in the Wessex Premier, Bournemouth Poppies host Alresford Town, Lymington entertain Andover Town, Verwood travel to Whitchurch and Christchurch journey to Fareham.

In Wessex One, Ringwood host Downton and New Milton travel to Cowes Sports (all 3pm).