GRAHAM Kemp has been appointed as the new manager of Dorchester Town.

The 49-year-old former Christchurch and Winchester City boss arrives at the Avenue from Wessex League side Hamworthy United, succeeding Phil Simkin who was sacked last month.

Kemp will meet up with the Magpies’ squad and coaching staff at training tonight before Saturday’s FA Cup tie at Yate Town.

Stuart Heath, who was acting as caretaker-manager while the club looked for a replacement for Simkin, will stay on as Kemp’s assistant

“Dorchester Town is a fantastic club, run by dedicated people, and I am honoured to have been given the first-team manager’s job,” said Kemp.

“There are some fantastic players at the club and I am looking forward to working with them.”

Chairman Matt Lucas added: “There was a lot of interest in the manager’s job but Graham really impressed with his enthusiasm to take up the challenge.

“He is local (Poole) and the success he had whilst at Christchurch on a minimal budget speaks volumes, his ability of developing a team around talented young local players really appealed.

“Graham has a knack with finding and developing young local talent including Ben Dickenson, who eventually went on to sign for Brighton & Hove Albion, and Harry Cornick, who has recently signed for AFC Bournemouth.

“He has not managed at this level before but I believe that Graham is somebody that the supporters can really get behind and we are delighted to have him at the club.”