Former Gillingham boss Steve Lovell is back in football as the new manager of Isthmian South East club Ramsgate.

Lovell has agreed to take charge until the end of the season following Matt Longhurst's departure yesterday.

The Welshman started the season at National League South Welling before returning to Priestfield in January as caretaker manager following Steve Evans' exit.

He'll take training for the first time tomorrow night and be in the dugout on Saturday when Rams host play-off rivals Haywards Heath at Southwood.

The Rams occupy the final play-off place but have lost their last four games.

"I'm pleased and excited to be asked to become Ramsgate FC manager for the remainder of the season," said Lovell.

"James Lawson (chairman) is working very hard to make Ramsgate a force on the football field and in the local community.

"I'm looking forward to the remaining four games and the prospect of play-off games."

Lawson announced Longhurst's departure in a statement on Sunday, following a 4-1 defeat at Cray Valley, with the club accepting a resignation he had tried to withdraw earlier in the week.

There was immediately big interest in the job, with Lovell getting the gig.

"The quality of the applicants we have received in the last 24 hours is testament to the hard work that so many people have put into growing this community club," said Lawson.

"Steve would be a stand-out candidate for positions at league clubs and we are delighted that our efforts have attracted him to the club.

"We have some huge games on the horizon and I look forward to introducing Steve to the squad."