Lee Martin takes interim charge of Ramsgate after Ben Smith steps down to take up a new role on the committee

RAMSGATE manager Ben Smith has stepped down for a second time and will take up a new role on the club’s committee.

The Rams suffered a 5-0 defeat at Aveley in Essex yesterday and sit in sixteenth-place in the Isthmian League Premier Division table, having picked up 15 points (three wins, six draws and six defeats)  from their 15 games.

Ramsgate have extended their winless run to seven games in all competitions and are only three points clear of the relegation zone, that contains Cray Valley, Welling United, Potters Bar Town and Canvey Island.

“Ben understands the heart and soul of this football club and the community that it exists within,” said a club statement.

“With a blossoming career developing away from the field, his experience and leadership with continue to add huge value off it.

“It’s well known that Ben guided Ramsgate to a televised FA Cup Second Round tie just two years ago, followed by a championship-winning, 109-point season last campaign.

“What’s less well-known is his vital contribution to our holiday activities and food (HAF) programmes – work that directly benefits hundreds of local families.

“Ben will continue to lead on these programmes and support our funding bids aimed at improving club infrastructure and community opportunities.

“The club can also confirm that Lee Martin will take charge as interim manager while we take time to review our next steps, supported by existing first-team staff.
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“We have a strong squad, seven of Saturday’s starters were part of last season’s title-winning side, which Lee was also part of, famously scoring the winner against Woking in The FA Cup First Round.”

Martin, 38, was in charge of league rivals Welling United earlier on in the season but parted company with the Park View Road outfit last month after only 13 games in charge of the club.

Applications for the permanent first-team manager position are now open. Interested parties should email chairman@ramsgate-fc.co.uk.

A minimum Step Three management experience is essential.  The club will also undertake a review of training venues, locations and schedules as part of the recruitment process.

Visit Ramsgate’s website: www.ramsgatefc.co.uk