MALVERN Town have made a key off-the-field appointment with Steve Dallow taking over as manager of the successful under 18s team.

The 41 year-old has a decade of coaching experience under his belt with the likes of Newtown Sports Juniors, Powick, Leigh and Bransford Badgers, Bromyard and most recently Malvern Vale, the club he helped to form in 2013.

Dallow has worked with young players at all levels from under 10s as well as holding various administrative roles at clubs since the age of 19.

Previous manager Stewart Watkins and his assistant Lee Smith stepped down at the end of the season after winning the Midland Floodlit Youth League Southern Division title.

“We’re pleased to welcome Steve to the club,” said Town chairman Chris Pinder.

“Managing an under 18 side is a tough job, particularly after being promoted last year, but after reviewing a number of applications we were impressed by Steve the most and we're really glad to have him on board in this key role.”

Dallow said: “I am delighted to have been given this opportunity to join the club.

"It’s obvious from the discussions that I have had with club officials that there is a clear vision for the future here and I am looking forward to being part of that journey.

“I have also had the opportunity to speak to Rich Davies at Leigh and Bransford Badgers, a club I know well, and see the partnership between the two clubs as being vital in order to progress local lads from junior football through to the under 18s, reserves and ultimately the first team here at Malvern Town.

“When I played, junior football stopped at under 15s so it was a case of jumping straight into adult football once you hit the age of 16.

"My knowledge of what it takes to make that leap is my main quality. Under 18s is essentially adult football and I have helped a number of players make this transition in recent years, including my own two sons.

“What the players will get from me is hard work and commitment so I will be looking for the same in return.

“Above all, I want the lads to enjoy playing. You have to enjoy what you’re doing and why you are doing it.

"For me, seeing the lads playing good football is the number one priority. If you can get that nailed then the results will follow.

“The under 18s won the title last season and that was a fantastic achievement for all involved so it will be a tough act to follow but ultimately success for me will be seeing under 18 players progressing into the reserves and first team.

“It is a challenge that I face with real relish and a steely determination to do well.”