Ben Chenery has been appointed as the new permanent manager of Ryman League Premier Division side Bury Town.

The former Blues assistant manager had been in temporary charge at Ram Meadow since Richard Wilkins’ departure and will now lead the team next season.

During his time as caretaker manager, Chenery signed a dozen players, including several members from last season’s squad.

Town chairman Russell Ward said: “Whilst that might have been seen as a foregone conclusion, I can say that the calibre of applicants was very high indeed and it was a difficult decision for the board.

“But I had to look at the whole package and Ben’s efforts in not just signing players but his vision for the club as a whole and his enthusiasm for the position made him the right choice.

“I firmly believe that there will be exciting times ahead for the club and whilst Ben is putting together a team capable of improving on last year’s league position and more, we are very much building for the future so he is under no pressure to achieve from day one.

“It will be a gradual process and will involve re-structuring the teams we have and adding new teams to provide a path from Youth football all the way to the first team, which will be achievable.

“The youth section have always had a motto of “football for all” and that will be carried forward throughout the club with Ben overseeing all football and working with Ross Wilding to ensure our coaches get the best coaching available.

“I’m sure everyone will get behind Ben and the team and join me in wishing him a successful career as a manager.”

Chenery added: “I am delighted that the chairman and board of directors have given me the opportunity to be the manager of Bury Town.

“I am proud and honoured to be given my first managerial role at a football club with a great footballing philosophy and one which is surrounded by hard working and passionate people who are striving to drive forward, both on and off the football pitch.

“I am looking forward to the start of the new season and cannot wait to get started.”

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