SIMON Browne has been tasked with maintaining Wimborne Town’s Southern League status – five-and-a-half years after his brother achieved it for the club.

The 44-year-old ex-Hamworthy United boss was yesterday revealed by the Daily Echo as the new permanent manager at Cuthbury.

His appointment ended a process which had seen Taffy Richardson, James Wood and Brian O’Donnell interviewed for the post, which became available following Steve Cuss’s resignation. 

Browne’s younger brother Alex Browne spent two-and-a-half years in charge of Wimborne between November 2008 and April 2011, winning promotion from the Wessex League in 2010. 

The new man takes over on Monday with caretakers Paul Roast and John Macey remaining in charge for Saturday’s home match with Shortwood United (3pm). 

Chairman Ken Stewart indicated the duo, who have masterminded two wins out of three since taking charge of the Southern South & West strugglers, would also be involved in Wednesday’s trip to Winchester.

Reading a statement prepared by the club’s board, Stewart told the Daily Echo: “The board of directors has appointed Simon Browne as the club’s new manager.

“We would like to thank all of the applicants, they were all of a very high standard. The board would also like to thank Paul Roast and John Macey, their input and enthusiasm in the interim has been outstanding.”

Browne returned to management with Dorchester Town reserves this season but has not held a senior post since leaving Hamworthy two years ago. 

Having taken over in October 2009, he oversaw a 16th-placed finish before guiding Hammers to ninth, seventh and 10th in the Wessex League Premier Division during his full seasons in charge.

Meanwhile, Roast has a selection headache this weekend with Jamie Davidson and James Stokoe suspended and Wayne Crutcher, Jon Blake and Louis Kellaway all doubtful. 

Wimborne head into the clash just three points clear of the drop zone.