Keith Bird: Former Cray Wanderers and Tunbridge Wells manager takes over as Holmesdale chairman

Bird has been out of the game for a six-year period having left his manager's job at Tunbridge Wells and he has also managed Cray Wanderers and was a reserve team manager at Bromley.

“I am absolutely thrilled to be joining the club at this time,” Bird said in a statement.

“Holmesdale FC is a well-established club with a dedicated fan, player, management and committee base.

“I feel very fortunate that the club has asked me to lead it out of the post-pandemic period and drive a number of initiatives we are looking at.

“I am very excited about the future prospects for the club and will be looking to maximise our potential going forwards.”

Tolfrey, who has become Honorary President at Oakley Road, explained his reasons behind stepping down from the role as chairman at the Bromley-based club.

He said:  “Every increasing non-football commitments have restricted the time I can devote and now is the ideal time to inject new passion and energy into the club.

“I remain totally committed to the ongoing development and success of the club and look forward to seeing all the boys back on the pitch very soon.”

The side are one of the leading lights of the Southern Counties East Football League First Division and manager Lee Roots paid tribute to Tolfrey.

“I would like to extend my thanks and gratitude to Ray for all he has done for myself and the club during his time as chairman and a very warm welcome to Keith. I am extremely excited for the new season ahead.”

Tunbridge Wells announced Bird’s departure as manager in October 2015, which saw Jason Bourne take charge of his home-town club.

Visit Holmesdale’s website: www.holmesdalefconline.wordpress.com