GILLINGHAM'S search for a new manager has ended with the appointment of Mark Stimson.

The 39-year-old was unveiled during a press conference at the Priestfield Stadium on Thursday afternoon.

Stimson, who only became available on Wednesday due to contractual issues with his former club Stevenage, has signed a three-and-a-half-year contract. He replaces Ronnie Jepson who left the club two months ago.

The club's caretaker manager Iffy Onuora will remain as first team coach.

Stimson, who will take charge for the first time at Swansea on Friday night, made his name in managerial circles by guiding Grays to two promotions and two FA Trophy triumphs.

He led the Essex side from the Ryman League to the Conference and was a key man in developing the likes of Freddy Eastwood during his time with Grays.

After deciding he had taken Grays as far as he could, Stimson resigned in the summer of 2006 and was quickly installed as manager of Stevenage.

Stimson kept up his impressive FA Trophy record by winning the competition for the third successive year at Wembley in May 2007.

After guiding Stevenage to the top of the Blue Square Premier this season, Stimson resigned on October 17.

In his playing days, Stimson made 86 appearances for Newcastle and also had spells with Portsmouth and Southend. He had a loan spell at Gillingham in 1989, playing 18 games.

FOR INDEPTH COVERAGE OF MARK STIMSON'S APPOINTMENT SEE MONDAY'S MEDWAY MESSENGER