Margate's management team are to stay on at Hartsdown beyond the end of this season.

Manager Steve Watt, and his assistant Steve Brown have both agreed new deals tying them to the Vanarama National League South club for the 2017/18 campaign.

The pair had initially been appointed until the end of this season following Nikki Bull's resignation last month.

A statement released by the club confirmed the pair had signed contracts until May, 2018, on Wednesday afternoon.

Saturday's 2-0 home win over relegation rivals Gosport Borough left the Gate 10 points from safety with nine games to go, but chairman Alistair Bayliss said he felt now was the right time to secure their services heading into next season.

He explained: “I’m absolutely delighted that both Steven Watt and Steve Brown have signed new deals until the end of the 2017/2018 season. This is a fantastic opportunity for everyone and as a club we can really push on now.

“With the takeover almost over the line this also further enhances the commitment of the new investors and they clearly see these as the guys to move the club forward.”

Manager Watt said he was happy to commit his future to the Blues beyond this season.

He added: “I am delighted to have extended my stay here alongside Steve (Brown) and Mike (coach Mike Sandmann) and we look forward to building a team that the fans, club and town can be proud of.

“No matter what division we find ourselves in next season I want to build a team that will be competitive.”

Margate have taken four points from their last two games and travel to Hemel Hempstead on Saturday. The Hertfordshire side lost 6-0 at Bath last weekend.

Gate were hoping to complete the signing of 23-year-old Maidstone midfielder Jack Evans on Thursday but the club have been unable to renew keeper Lewis Ward's loan deal and he has returned to Reading.