I believe that Hythe Town has an exciting future, says newly-appointed chairman Gary Johnson

HYTHE TOWN have appointed Gary Johnson as their new chairman tonight.

The Cannons finished in fifth-place in the Isthmian League South East Division last season, reaching the play-off final where they lost 1-0 at Whitehawk.

Manager Steven Watt worked with limited resources and announced his shock resignation last Friday – but returned four days later.

Johnson, who was introduced at a supporters’ meeting at Reachfields Stadium last night, was formerly chairman of Whitstable Town, an Isthmian League director and referee.

Johnson has been out of football since leaving Whitstable Town in 2016 - but comes from a corporate background and runs two small businesses.

“I am thrilled to join an ambitious club who want to progress and have a first-class manager in Steve Watt,” said Johnson, in a statement posted on the club website.

“The board have asked me to provide strategic leadership to galvanise the club as they move forward.

“I am also excited to be back in football that has given me so much over the years.  I believe that Hythe Town has an exciting future.”

The Kent coastal club have also announced that former temporary chairman Andy Short has taken over from Martin Giles as club secretary.

Short is also the secretary of the Southern Counties East Football League.

“Martin has given so many years to the club and will remain on the board,” added the club statement.

“He will still be responsible for the bar and will continue to be very active within the club supporting Andy as assistant secretary.

“All at the club are very grateful for all the hours Martin has put in over 35 years.  Without his time and effort, Hythe Town would have really struggled.”

Meanwhile, Watt has put his band together, after coming so close to a fairy tale promotion at the end of last season.

The club have confirmed that Lex Allan, Jack Steventon, Liam Smith, Josh Stirman, Frannie Collin, Ethan Smith, Morgan Williamson, Sam Itauma, Harry Miller, Shad Ngandu, Jarred Trespaderne, Johan Caney-Bryan and Marcus Goldsmith have been retained.

The only departure is central midfielder Marvin Hamilton.

The Cannons have signed former Erith & Belvedere goalkeeper Andy Molloy, 31.

Visit Hythe Town’s website: www.hythetownfc.co.uk