Hampton & Richmond FC has confirmed the appointment of Mel Gwinnett as Head of Football Operations and First Team Manager.

Gwinnett joins the Beavers after a successful spell at Barnet FC who currently sit fifth in the National League after an impressive start to the 2022/23 campaign.

In his new role for the club in addition to first team responsibilities, Gwinnett will take a leading role in the design, development and embedding of the side's operating model.

Caretaker boss Steve Bates will remain at the helm for Hampton & Richmond's upcoming fixtures against Oxford City and Chesnut FC before returning to the academy set up.

A statement released this afternoon from the club read: "This is a very exciting period for The Beavers and an important first step in creating a stronger alignment between first team capabilities and academy development, including the long-term goal of a fully integrated football operation that develops youth on and off the pitch.

"The Club takes this opportunity to thank Steve Bates for stepping up and leading the First Team on an interim basis and looks forward to his continued leadership in developing and progressing the HRBFC Academy."

The Beavers currently sit precariously above the drop zone in 20th and head into tomorrow afternoon's home fixture against Oxford looking for their first league win in six.