Ramsgate caretaker manager Lee Martin tells how former boss Ben Smith put him forward for the role and discusses the task of reviving the team’s fortunes

Caretaker manager Lee Martin will do everything he can to help Ramsgate - after being recommended for the role by former boss Ben Smith.

Smith, who led Rams to the Isthmian South East title last season, stepped down after a 5-0 defeat at Aveley on Saturday, which extended their winless run to seven games in all competitions.

He put Martin’s name forward during talks with chairman James Lawson and the 38-year-old has taken the reins while the club consider their options.

Martin had recently returned to Southwood as a player-coach following a brief spell as Welling boss.

He was never after Smith’s job - the pair are close friends - but felt a responsibility to help a club he loves.

Smith has taken a role on the Rams committee after ending his second spell as manager.

“I got a call from Ben explaining the situation and would you be interested because I’ve put your name forward?” said Martin.

“I know everyone will read into it but we were there to work together, it just didn’t evolve to that.

“The key message is Ben phoned me and said would you take it?

“I was a bit apprehensive because I was gutted for Ben, as were all the boys.

“Purely for the love of the club and what it’s done for me and my family, I was never not going to take the opportunity.

“At the time you’re disappointed because your mate’s just lost his job, so that’s always the initial thought.

“And then you’ve got the realisation that actually it’s an opportunity to manage and give back to people at the club that I’ve got a lot of time for.”

Martin takes charge for the first time when Ramsgate meet Cheshunt at Southwood on Saturday (3pm).

There’s work to be done with Rams just outside the Isthmian Premier bottom four in 18th place.

While the performance at