Management team confirmed for the upcoming season.

Newcastle Blue Star are delighted to confirm the management team that will lead the first team into the upcoming season.

Paul Brayson continues as manager and Andrew Bulford commits to NE15, remaining as coach, with the club also pleased to announce the appointment of Richard Latimer as assistant first team manager.

Latimer, who has managerial experience at Alnwick Town and Washington, as well as time spent as an assistant at West Allotment and Birtley Town, brings a wealth of experience to the role, having served in both playing and management capacities within the Northern League.

His knowledge of the division will be a valuable addition to an already strong backroom setup at NE15.

The appointment builds on a positive first half season under Paul Brayson, and the club believes this strengthened off-the-pitch structure puts the squad in an excellent position heading into the new campaign.

Taking up the role, Latimer said: “I am delighted to be joining a club like Newcastle Blue Star, I have had a few offers since standing down as manager of Alnwick but once I received the phone call and sat down with Besty, Brassy and Bully I knew this was the right club for me!

"I already knew how big and well run the club was but add to that the ambition of the Chairman and the management it's the challenge that I couldn't turn down. My role is to support Brassy, Bully and the players to get the club to that next level everyone involved in the club wants. I can't wait to get started meeting the staff the players and the fans and hopefully contribute to a successful season building off a very good second half of last season!"

First Team Manager Paul Brayson added: “Richie is a great lad and top coach, someone who I’ve known for a long time, and will bring top quality coaching to our setup. This appointment will add important depth to our backroom staff, and allow for more time to spent focusing on providing the best possible environment for our squad.”

Welcoming our first signing of the 26-27 campaign, Club Chairman Stephen Best said: “For the club to take the next step we knew we needed to strengthen both on & off the pitch, and we are delighted to have secured Richies services. Brassy & Bully did a brilliant job last year, but we knew we needed extra depth and support, and Richie will bring an excellent skill set to the coaching team. He will also bring brilliant personal qualities to our group, with his outstanding commitment to Alnwick Town reflective of the type of character we want involved.”

Latimer links up with the squad immediately, ahead of pre-season beginning next week.

Our confirmed backroom setup for the 26-27 campaign:

• First Team Manager – Paul Brayson

• First Team Assistant Manager – Richard Latimer

• First Team Coach – Andrew Bulford

• First Team Physio – Tom Kitchen