Joint-boss Tony Reid takes sole charge at Larkfield & New Hythe while first-team coach Sian Fitzpatrick promoted to assistant manager

Tony Reid has taken sole charge at Larkfield & New Hythe after Fraser Walker announced he was leaving the club.

As joint-managers, Reid and Walker led the Larks to the highest finish in their history this season.

They secured fourth place in the Southern Counties East Premier Division before losing to Rusthall on penalties in the play-off semi-finals.

Walker confirmed his exit on Saturday but Reid is staying on, while first-team coach Sian Fitzpatrick has been promoted to assistant manager in another positive step for women working in men’s football.

“The club are pleased to confirm that last season’s joint first-team manager Tony Reid has agreed to continue as the sole manager for next season and to promote Sian Fitzpatrick as his No.2,” said a Larkfield & New Hythe statement.

“Both were an integral part of last season’s success, getting the team to its highest-ever position, finishing fourth in the SCEFL Premier Division and narrowly missing out in the play-offs.

“New faces will be joining the backroom team which will be announced in due course.

“The club would like to put on record its thanks to Fraser Walker, who enjoyed success as a player for two seasons and last year stepped in at late notice to jointly manage the team.”