Tier 3 club Saltney Town appoint new manager

Saltney Town have appointed Sam Bristow as their new manager.

He replaces Andy Dutton, who stepped down last month as boss of the Ardal North West club.

Bristow, whose playing career at Port Vale was curtailed following a car accident, but took him on to play for Workington, Kingstonian, Cammell Laird and Flint Town United among others, cut his managerial teeth in charge of Kingston University.

A former NEWFA U19’s captain with experience at various levels of both the English and Welsh pyramid, Sam knows the area well.

“Saltney is a club I have known from my experiences playing at Flint Town United,” he said.

“When the manager position came available, I didn’t hesitate in putting myself forward for the role. Talking at length with various members of the club, it was apparent to me that the ambitions I have as a manager and coach match that of the club and committee, therefore it is a great fit for me.

“Having two very good and well-known assistants in Adam and Craig is a great advantage, I have played with Adam at Flint and heard great things about Hetty.”

The committee were unanimous in their minds that Sam was the ideal candidate for the role with chairman Darren Meredith saying: “Sam’s desire, drive and passion for management and coaching were clear from the first few lines of his application, and upon his first interview this was only re-affirmed.

“When life returns to normal, and the excitement of the new Tier 3 set-up restarts, this is an exciting time for the club and the new approach.

“Sam has big shoes to step into from the previous gaffer, but it’s also a perfect club to come in and establish and stamp his mark on. We’re pleased to be giving a young, impressive man his chance at this level.

“Over the coming weeks we will be able to see the boys back on the field for our belated pre-season friendlies, which will be great opportunity for Sam to get to know his players.

“It will take time for us to develop the club to where we want to be, but I ask all the Town family, supporters, players and us as officials and staff to be patient with us, and support us as much as possible throughout this journey.

“This is crucial for us all. We intend to try our very best to bring success to Saltney Town so we hope you will be there to enjoy it with us.”