ROSS Pettitt will take over as Portland Town Thirds’ manager for the 2021/22 Dorset League Division Five campaign.

Pettitt will be player-manager for Town’s third string and succeeds previous boss Fraser Hulm, who relinquishes the leadership for family reasons.

In a brief statement, Pettitt acknowledged Town’s faith in him to fulfil what will be his first management job.

He said: “I can’t wait to get started and I’m grateful to the club for giving me my first crack at management.

“I believe if all those who played regularly for the third team last season do so again with just the odd addition we can challenge again this season.”

Portland Town are set to celebrate their 15th season as they yet again feature four teams – three on a Saturday and a veterans’ Sunday morning side.

All four teams are on the look out for new players and pre-season will begin in earnest after the club’s awards night this summer.

Town have had over 40 players already commit to the season across the four teams but still require more signings.

If any players are interested in joining the club they can contact the managers at portlandtownfc@hotmail.co.uk