TONBRIDGE Angels have confirmed Under-18s manager Nick Sullivan will replace Paul Dainty as chairman on May 1st.

Sullivan, 44, heads a consortium who agreed a deal to form a new board at the end of the current Ryman Premier League campaign.

Dainty and finance director Robin Apps had already indicated their intention to step down.

The Angels are currently battling relegation, but Sullivan is relishing the chance to take control and continue the work done by Dainty.

He said: "These are exciting times for everyone connected with the club and I’m really looking forward to the challenge. I’ve got the utmost respect for Paul and in a way, it’s down to him we still have a club and that it’s in such a stable financial position.

"I realise there is a lot of work to be done, but there are lots of ideas coming forward and lots of people offering to help. I came back to the club in the summer and was talking to Paul about various things and it just snowballed from there."

The consortium, made up of business contacts of Sullivan’s, has raised funds to give the club an initial cash injection.

Plans are under discussion to increase the revenue produced by the club, which will enable them to compete on a more equal footing with financially stronger clubs.

"The main thing is to make the club self-sufficient," explained Sullivan. "There aren’t many clubs who have a wealthy benefactor at this level.

"We know we have to overhaul the bar and make it a place where people will go before and after the game. We also need to sell advertising boards and match sponsorships.

"It’s not going to happen overnight but we are going to make a concerted effort to drive the club forward."

Sullivan confirmed that he will be forced to relinquish his duties with the youth set-up but would continue to assist Tony Dolby in the dugout for the last three games. Paul Dainty will continue as vice-chairman and Sullivan hopes his predecessor will now be able to relax on Saturday afternoons.

"I want Paul to be able to come down to the ground at 2 o’clock, have a good time and enjoy watching the football," said Sullivan.

Dainty added: "Nick has lots of good ideas and enthusiasm. He’s a Tonbridge person as well, which is good, and I think he’ll be very good for Tonbridge Angels."