STEWART Kearn has been appointed new manager of Sydenhams Premier Division club Hamworthy United.

Kearn, who had a brief spell as joint-manager of Bashley last term, steps up to the top job having served as assistant to predecessor Graham Kemp since November.

The Hammers interviewed reserve team manager Shane Traynor, Merley boss Ollie Cherrett and one other unnamed candidate for the position, but chairman Mark Bartlett said the club’s quest for continuity had proved the overriding factor.

Bartlett said: “Stewart came over really well in the interview and we were very impressed.

“His experience of playing at a higher level along with a good knowledge of the Wessex League was clear and the established relationship with (Hammers first-team coach and caretaker boss) John Macey was a big consideration.

“The club liked the idea of maintaining that continuity.”

Kemp left his position at the County Ground last week to take over at Southern League Dorchester Town.