Hugo Langton believes he has the experience and knowledge to help make Herne Bay’s transition to the Ryman League a smooth one.

The 37-year-old UEFA-qualified coach, pictured, was appointed assistant manager to Simon Halsey last week and admitted he is relishing the chance of helping Bay settle quickly into their new surroundings.

Langton parted company with Horsham last season, having stepped up from being No.2 to Whitstable manager Justin Luchford when he left the Sussex club.

Just back from a trip to Belfast to update his A licence, where he was in the same group as Notts County boss Keith Curle, Luton assistant manager Alan Neilson and former Welsh international Mark Pembridge, Langton said: "This is a big step for Herne Bay, playing in a league where they should be.

"I know the Ryman League inside out and what it’s all about. I want to meet the lads, get started and take my experience on to the training ground.

"I am 100% looking forward to it. I had lots of offers from other clubs, which didn’t suit me.

"Simon and I had kept in touch on twitter for the last six months but I had heard great things about him, his team and how they play and his football philosophy."