LAURIE Whyte has succeeded John Ryan as Weymouth chairman in one of several changes to the club’s hierarchy.

Andy Jarvis takes on the role of president from John Cake while next season sees Kieron Womble sharing the captain’s armband with Simon Browne.

And Ryan, who also passes on the secretarial duties to Whyte, told Echosport that the Seasiders won’t look to drop down any more than one division following their relegation last term.

However, he did confirm that the club won’t have a second XI in 2016 after it folded this summer.

“We spoke a few home truths at the club’s AGM about wanting the players to keep the club running,” said Ryan.

“We used 35 players last season which shows there are people out there who can play, but availability was a major issue and you can’t run two sides based on that.

“With the changes made we will still be run by people who have the club at heart, and some of the youngsters have come on board as well.

“We need people like that to grab hold of the club going into the future.”

Ryan says he has finally retired from playing but will support the club in an advisory role.

“I enjoyed playing for Weymouth and seeing the youngsters develop but it was time for me to step aside,” he added.