Caretaker boss Gary Birch confirmed as Hednesford Town’s permanent manager

Pic: Steve Walker

FORMER Highgate United and Lichfield City boss Gary Birch has been confirmed as the new manager of Hednesford Town.

Birch, who joined the club as assistant to Paul Casey in November, had been in caretaker charge of the Pitmen since the departure of Casey last month.

He did enough to impress the Keys Park hierarchy – recording four wins in his eight games at the helm – and the Evo-Stik NPL Premier club have handed Birch the job on a permanent basis.

Marvin Robinson has been confirmed as Birch’s assistant while first team coach Gavin Hurren, goalkeeping coach Mark Kavanagh and physio Gavin Blackwell will all remain with the club.

Birch, 35, has previous managerial experience following a brief stint with Highgate United and 18 months in charge of Lichfield City, who he left in May 2016.

A former striker, Birch started his career with Walsall before spells with Kidderminster, Lincoln City, AFC Telford United, Rushall Olympic, Chasetown and Solihull Moors led to him moving into management.

Following his appointment, Birch said: “I’m obviously delighted to be given the chance to manage this football club going forward.

“The real work begins now though in making sure that we end this season strongly and build on what we have already put in place over the last few weeks.”