Darren Blackburn has been appointed the new manager of Hollands & Blair following the decision of Clint Gooding to leave the role.

Gooding took over as manager of Blair midway through the 2017/18 season, following Bryan Greenfield’s departure, steering them to safety in the Southern Counties East, Premier Division.

The club were struggling at the foot of the table, with only two points at Christmas, but after a change of management they finished the season third from bottom.

Gooding has, however, decided to step aside, with Blackburn being promoted from reserve manger to first-team boss.

A club statement said: “We are sad to announce that first team manager, Clint Gooding has decided to step down from his role as first team manager with immediate effect.

“The club would like to place on record our thanks to Clint and his hard work in keeping Hollands & Blair in the SCEFL and wish him and his family all the very best now and in the future.”