GRAYS Athletic have confirmed the appointment of Lewis Dark as the club's manager for next season in the Isthmian North.

Just days after announcing that Paul Joynes was quitting the managerial post at the Blues and moving up to the boardroom, Grays have announced the apointment of Dark, with Ashley Miller as his assistant.

A statement says: "The club were very keen to maintain a level of continuity after Paul Joynes advised us of his retirement as we felt that this approach served us well back in the summer when Jim Cooper handed the managerial baton to Paul.

"Lewis advised the board that, as he is nearing the end of his playing career, he was looking to move into management and consequently during meetings with Paul and Steve Skinner, he advised the club of his plans and ambitions for Grays Athletic going forward. This blueprint coupled with Lewis's knowledge and understanding of the club, his many contacts in the game and his affinity with The Blues very much met with our approval and the board had no hesitation in offering him the role.

"Lewis has already appointed Grays Athletic Coach, Ash Miller, as his assistant and they will be looking to secure the services of other members of the coaching team in the following days.

After his appointment, Dark said: "Firstly, I would like to thank the board for this incredible opportunity. As first team manager, my ambitions will be to drive this club to the next level, however, I am under no illusions as to the challenges that lie ahead.

"Of course, there will be ups and downs, although I believe that with the right blend of youth and experience, along with hard work on the training ground, we will have a team that supporters can be proud of.

"Along with my management team, we will be getting to work straight away and hope to secure the nucleus of the current squad to maintain continuity and togetherness.

"We will also be looking to strengthen in certain areas as we look to compete at the top end of the league.

"Grays Athletic is a club I have represented at three stages during my career and it is one that I am extremely fond of. I can assure everyone that I will be giving my upmost to fulfil the potential of this huge football club"

Miller added: "I would like to thank the club for this opportunity and trusting myself and Lewis to take Grays Athletic forward.

"This is a fantastic club, with great people associated with it. The supporters are top drawer and I can't wait to get started and give everything to make sure that we have a successful season."