Margate manager Nikki Bull says the club's plans off the field mean it's vital they stay in Vanarama National League South.

Bull may have overseen a dramatic improvement in Margate's fortunes on the field but says there is still a lot of hard work to be done

He attended his first Fans Forum since taking charge on Wednesday night when supporters heard the club have agreed in principle on a new 25-year lease to stay at Hartsdown Park.

Bull said: " Bob Laslett (the chairman) has been at the club for two years and perhaps on the face of it not much has changed.

"He is an astute businessman and wouldn't consider pumping millions of pounds into the club before securing the future of the ground, and this is a step in the right direction.

"It means that we have to stay in Vanarama National League South because bearing in mind the club's plans, relegation would be a disaster."

Bull emerged from the meeting encouraged by what he heard from the fans and wants to continue his good rapport with the Gate fans in two years as a player.

He said: " It was a chance for them to air any grievances, problems or concerns.

"I have developed a good relationship with supporters, and believe lines of communication with fans are very important."

Gate travel to leaders Ebbsfleet on Saturday and Bull added: "We have to be respectful of what they have achieved because they have done a fantastic job.

"We also have a job to do ourselves and it's important we start picking up points away from home. "

Bull confirmed that new signing Matt Johnson won't play against his old club as part of a "gentleman's agreement" when he moved to Hartsdown Park.

David Hunt was due to train on Thursday night but the manager thinks the game is likely to come too soon for him following a calf problem, suffered while doing extra training away from the club.

Bull also revealed that Jamie Taylor has turned down the chance to go on loan at a Ryman League Premier Division club.