Walsham-le-Willows boss Trevor Newman has admitted it was ‘a bit daunting’ taking over from Paul Smith in the summer.

Smith had been a long-time success at Summer Road, guiding the club up through the pyramid during his near 20-year reign.

And when Newman, who had been assistant last season, was promoted to the top job, it was a big set of boots to fit into.

But fit into them he has – and in some style.

Walsham currently sit fourth in the Thurlow Nunn Premier, two points behind leaders Godmanchester and just a point behind Histon and Stowmarket.

On Saturday afternoon they travel to lowly Hadleigh.

“I must admit taking over from Paul was indeed a bit daunting,” Newman said.

“I knew all the players of course and the set-up, so that wasn’t a problem, but Smithy did so much as a manager.

“If he was still boss the team would be doing just as well, certainly top eight at least. We have a very good set of players.”

It’s a class comment from Newman and strikes at the heart of much of what is good about Walsham.

Without doubt they have a smaller budget than many in and around them, but team ethic and community is key to them.

“I think we are a bit different to most clubs in so much as we are not just a football club, but a social club,” Newman added.

“Players know officials well and vice versa.

“I’m never surprised when players come back to want to play for us after leaving for pastures new.”

LISTEN: To Walsham’s MIKE POWELLS here on the Non-League PodcastWhile off-pitch facilities and community are at the hub of everything at Summer Road, there is no doubting on the football pitch, Walsham are also becoming serious players in the title race this campaign.

“It’s nice people are saying nice things about us,” Newman added.

“Yes, we are doing well.

“We face the likes of Stowmarket and Godmanchester in the next few weeks and even going to places like Hadleigh won’t be easy.

“In this league there is no team you can’t beat, but there is no team you can’t lose to either.”