FOLLOWING promotion to the Thurlow Nunn South League and Step 6 football, East Thurrock Community FC have announced a new men's first team management partnership and have already started recruiting players for the new campaign - which will also see Rocks compete in the FA Vase for the first time.

And work continues to get the former East Thurrock United ground at Rookery Hill ready for a the new season's return - which includes a number of fixtures including the James Chisnall Cup against Grays Athletic.

At the helm of the fan-owned club after their promotion from the Essex & Suffolk Border League Premier Division, will be joint managers Kevin Scott and Michael Hart.

Scott continues where he left off last season with former boss John Coventry jnr, while Hart is back in an Amber and Black set-up he first knew as a player for East Thurrock United under John Coventry Senior.

Scott, who also worked alongside Rocks' legendary long time manager Coventry snr for a number of seasons at several clubs including East Thurrock, Great Wakering and Tilbury, said: "I beyond grateful for this opportunity to lead such a passionate, hardworking and loyal bunch of players.

"I can't wait to get stuck in to build on the amazing work started two years ago and to take the club forward."

Hart said: "I'm delighted to be joining East Thurrock as joint manager alongside Kevin. Firstly, I'd like to thank the club for giving me this opportunity and for placing their trust in me.

"I'm excited for the challenge ahead and helping drive East Thurrock forward on and off the pitch."

"Kevin and Covo jnr did a fantastic job last season in securing promotion, and they deserve enormous credit for the hard work and success they brought to the club. I've known Kevin for a number of years and I'm really looking forward to working alongside him as we look to build on those foundations and continue pushing the team forward together.

"Having spent many years involved in non-league football as a player, I understand the commitment, passion and community spirit that make clubs like East Thurrock so special. It's also particularly meaningful for me as this is where I began my playing career, so I know first-hand what the club means to its supporters and the local community.

"I'm excited for the challenge ahead and can't wait to get started, meet everyone involved with the club, and help drive East Thurrock forward both on and off the pitch."

Scott said: "Michael brings a lot of experience and was assistant manager of Romford two seasons ago where he played a key role in identifying and introducing young players into the first team.

"I can't wait to work alongside him as we push the club forward."

Retained players from last season include Harry Prince, Zac Bussell, Harry Salter. Lewis Rowe, Harry Daly, Kieron Miles and Zac Bussell.

The 'old faces' came up with a succession of messages looking forward to the new season.

Harry Prince with the new co-managers

Club captain Prince said: "With new management, a new league, and plenty of new challenges ahead, I'm really looking forward to linking back up with Kev, Harty and the boys. I'm looking forward to my third season at the Rocks, let's make it special together."

Salter added: "Buzzing for the new season. a new league, a new challenge and managements team. I can't wait to get going and playing in front of the supporters over at Rookery Hill."

Rowe said: "I'm buzzing to be back for my second year as a Rock. New management, new league and a class group of boys" while Dally commentated: "The support from the fans will play a huge part for us. Up the Rocks!"

Miles said: "The journey through last season and a half has been great, but it's only the start of what's to come" and Bussell concluded the upbeat messages, saying: "From the players to the management team and to the fans - we are all one."

The club's confirmed fixtures are:-

Basildon United (H - Wyldecrest Club). Saturday, 4 July (3pm)

Grays Athletic (H - Rookery Hill). James Chisnell Memorial Cup Friday, July 10 (7.45pm)

Earls Colne (H - Rookery Hill). Saturday, 18 July (3pm)

The championship winning ladies team.

Meanwhile the club's ladies team, who also won a title last season, have been confirmed to play in the ECWFL Premier Division.