BURNHAM have announced Paul Shone as their new manager in a bid to avoid relegation from the Hellenic Premier Division this season.

Shone has replaced former boss Alan Paris, with new also arrivals at boardroom level, and has eight matches to beat relegation.

The Blues are currently eight points from safety and Shone’s first match in charge will be a visit to The Gore from Royal Wootton Bassett Town this Saturday (3pm).

Shone told the Observer: “There’s lots going on but I’ve been asked to come in with the task to avoid relegation, and then help grow the club going forward in the future.

“The first goal is to get as many wins as we can and see where we finish this season before we look forward to the future.

“I am confident in anything that I do because I’m a very ambitious person and I always believe in backing yourself.

“We've got to change the mental attitude of the players that are still here, and there are certain players that I'm looking to bring in.

"The Burnham name has been tarnished so it will be tough to change people’s mindset that it's going to be different. Some players will not buy it but we will get it right.

"We need to bring in four or five players and see what happens but there are certainly areas that we need to strengthen.

"We will have a look at what we've got and prepare for a massive game on Saturday."

Shone continued: "Every game will be tough because people will see us as easy pickings.

"There's no better time to start with a win and the players that are already here will be given a lift by a new manager and players.

"We've targeted three points and have got to get started on Saturday."

Commenting on the believed new takeover at The Gore, Shone explained: "We see this as a great new vision to get the football club back to where it was.

"People behind the scenes have been involved higher in the non-league game. There are a few people involved from higher in the pyramid.

"There's a lot of speculation and talk, but it's not a FAB Academy takeover.

"The people that are coming in what to take the club forward and the ambition is to grow the club, and that's something I want to do."

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