Former Hammer Julian Dicks has been appointed as the new manager of non-league side Heybridge Swifts.
The 50 year old took charge for the first time in the Bostik North division clash at Mildenhall Town over the weekend starting with a victory. His appointment follows the resignation of Jody Brown.
Swifts chairman Gary White said: “The calibre of applicants and those was very high and I feel this reflected the esteem in which the club is now held after the achievements under Jody Brown. Julian’s two-year period as coach at such a high level was a major factor in his appointment and the fact that he has extensively watched Swifts as a fan over the past five years has given him a great affinity to the club and its fans.
“Julian’s roots are firmly in non-league football and his father Ron was a non-league player in the west country, having also managed Frome Town in that area, who Swifts beat in the FA cup last season. Julian is also committed to the junior football side at Swifts and has been a regular visitor to Sunday matches there, as well as taking on some coaching sessions for the boys.
“He is keen to continue and increase this work to ensure that the thriving junior section at the club continues to develop and improve, and potentially provides a pathway to senior football for the best young players there. So much of the success of last season came from the unity created at the club with many new fans coming from the junior section and cheering on the first team every Saturday, both home and away.
“I see that increasing further in the season ahead with Julian’s appointment.”