New Whitstable Town striker Steadman Callender hoping to get the club promoted after joining from Erith Town

New arrival Steadman Callender wants to play his part in getting Whitstable back to where he feels they belong.

Prolific striker Callender has joined Marcel Nimani’s Oystermen this summer after a goal-laden 2022/23 campaign with Southern Counties East Premier Division rivals Erith Town.

The Belmont outfit finished fifth in their first campaign back at Step 5 and they will again aim to secure a return to Isthmian South East football in the upcoming season.

“It’s exciting times ahead with what Marcel’s told me and his plans for the club,” said Callender.

“I’m excited to get started. I’ve heard the fanbase is really good and the club is keen to get back to the Isthmian League - where it belongs.

“Like I said, I cannot wait.”

While both Whitstable and Erith Town play in the same league, the Oystermen had the second-best average crowd of 442 - topped only by Deal - while Erith Town were mid-table in the attendance charts with 115 on average.

Callender said: “The fanbase, from what I’ve heard, is another level.

“That’s no disrespect to Erith Town. I had a great time at Erith Town.

“But I’m moving down to a big club that has been established, playing at higher levels previously, which is where they deserve to be.

“You always want to fight for silverware - whether that’s the league, a cup or promotion through the new play-offs system.

“I’m sure, with the players we have got, we can fight for those targets together.

“I’m really looking forward to that.”

Callender has briefly encountered some of his new team-mates when playing against them - but only really knows winger Harry Gamble from their time together at Erith Town.

He explained: “Obviously from playing against people, you sort of get to know them.

“But the only person I