Nick Gearing is the new manager of Herne Bay.

The former Gillingham and Leyton Orient coach will be assisted by Chris Woollcott and Nicky Lewis, who have worked with Dover Athletic's under-16s this season.

Gearing wrote a letter to Bay supporters after his appointment was confirmed.

He said: "For me it was vital to join a club that wants to move forward, play exciting football and most importantly had a good fan base to enjoy the season with.

"Chris also works for the Chelsea FC Foundation as an academy coach and Nicky works at the Spires Academy as head of sport development.

"I believe these are great guys to assist me as we as a coaching team will place a lot of emphasis on coaching young players to improve our team.

"On the subject of players, I have spoken with the current squad after the match against Pheonix Sports and let them know that as always and as should be the case, I plan to be honest with all involved about their futures with the club as we plan to keep a lot of the current team but this depends on a lot of factors including money and players wanting to move elsewhere.

"My main priority is the direction of the club. We plan to use my previous experience and knowledge to professionalise the club, ensuring high standards of everything within my control.

"We will be introducing video analysis of our matches, scouting opposition and bringing young, ideally local players to the club to ensure you are coming to watch your Herne Bay every week.

"After games we will bring in video interviews on social media and we will have regular fans forums and ‘meet the manager’ events so that the people that matter are kept informed.

"We hope that this can lead to continually high attendances as you enjoy our brand of football to ensure the community of Herne Bay has a club they can be proud of."