Meridian unveil Richard Dimmock as joint-manager

MERIDIAN VP have unveiled their new management team tonight.

The Kent Invicta League side have confirmed the arrival of Richard Dimmock, 35, Liam Kelly, 32, and Gareth Pritchard, who will join the management structure at the Charlton-based club.

Dimmock and Dwinder Tamna will be joint-managers, assisted by Gurdy Tamna and Kelly, while Pritchard comes in as coach.

A club statement, which was posted on the club’s website said: “Meridian VP would like to place on record its gratitude and thanks to Billy Piper for all his hard work and effort which saw the club lift the Hospitals Cup in season 2012-13.

“Richard Dimmock arrives from managing Bexley Borough last season and before that had an extensive playing career at a very high level.

“The club would like to put on record that the appointment of Richard and the team is a welcome boost to the management staff and infrastructure of the senior set-up.”

A former YTS player with Leyton Orient, Dimmock has had vast experience of semi-professional football, this culminating in being in the dressing room with some great managers and players over his playing career.

The striker is probably best known for his time with Welling United, where he made his Conference debut at the age of sixteen.

His former clubs include Cray Wanderers, Tooting & Mitcham United, Lordswood and Thamesmead Town.

Kelly, who turns 33 next Wednesday, also arrives from Haart of Kent County League Division Two West side Bexley Borough, where he was owner of the Thamesmead-based club.

“Liam has run a football club for the last 10 years pretty much single handed,” added the statement.

“Liam’s role is undefined but will be general management of the first team’s day-to-day affairs reporting to the committee.

“Gareth Pritchard comes as a coach, having both known Liam and Richard for many years will be the key in making Meridian VP a well-oiled and fully drilled side.

“Gareth is a FA Level 3 UEFA B coach, was FA coach of the year in 2006 and has his own sports fitness and conditioning business.

“Meridian VP have a clear direction and target for the new season and with this the club would like to welcome Richard, Liam and Gareth and wish them well in their preparation for the new season and success.”

Meanwhile, the club are searching for a goalkeeping coach and physio for the season ahead.

Visit Meridian VP’s website:  www.pitchero.com/clubs/meridianfootballclub