HAMWORTHY United have confirmed Alan Lay as the club’s new manager.

The former Swanage and Verwood boss has stepped up from his role as assistant to Callum Brooks, who yesterday left to take charge at Southern League South Dorchester Town.

Lay will be in the hot seat for the first time when Hammers visit AFC Portchester in Wessex Premier on Saturday (3pm).

Club chairman Steve Harvey told the Daily Echo: “I am really pleased. Alan is a really nice guy with great values and foresight with what he wants to do.

“We want to play good football and entertain people. That’s what Alan’s thoughts are and my thoughts are.

“Alan is very focused and determined. He feels he has a point to prove here and likes the setup. “We are really pleased and we will carry on with our plan. The plan is to be promoted within three years.”

Lay takes over a Hamworthy side who sit fifth in Wessex Premier, with 14 wins from 26 league games.

Hammers also confirmed Ben Sullivan would take over as assistant manager and goalkeeping coach.

Brain Churchill and Sean Leadbetter were also named as part of the County Ground backroom staff.