Sheppey United have appointed Kevin Watson as successor to late manager Ernie Batten.

Watson, the former Chatham, Cray Valley, Herne Bay and Ashford boss, will take charge this summer.

An Ites statement said: “It was of utmost importance to the board that the next first-team manager of Sheppey United would be someone who the late, great Ernie Batten would have approved of.

“Ernie’s legacy is woven into the very fabric of this football club, and as we move forward, we do so with his values, his passion and his vision firmly in mind.

“Kevin’s relationship with Ernie was one built on mutual respect and a shared love for an attacking style of football.

“We feel confident from their strong relationship built over the years that he is the right person to guide the club through this transition period and into the next chapter of our journey.

“His experience, leadership and understanding of what Sheppey United represents will be valuable as we continue to build on the foundations laid by Ernie.”

Geoff Record and Ira Jackson will remain in charge until the end of the season, although the Ites say Watson is “already now actively working in the background on player retention, recruitment and pre-season planning”.

Watson will be assisted by Tommy Osborne, his No.2 at both Cray Valley and Ashford.

Sheppey announced the death of club legend Batten last weekend.

The 67-year-old, who was also a director of the club, had stepped back from managerial duties due to ill health.

The Ites held a minute’s applause in his memory before Saturday’s home game against Deal Town.