DAVE Diaper has reclaimed the managerial reins at Southern One South & West outfit Sholing.

 After leading the club to a sparkling FA Vase/Sydenhams Premier double last term, Diaper - already club chairman  - stepped upstairs as director of football over the summer.

 He handed charge of team affairs to long-serving former first-team coach Mick Marsh and reserve team boss Dave Fear who had a tough task on their hands following the break-up of the 2013/14 double-winning team.

Tuesday's 3-0 defeat at Bridgwater left the Boatmen languishing 17th in the table with just 14 points from 15 games, and it was agreed last night that Marsh would be stepping down.

 A statement issued by Diaper explained "After a brief conversation with Mick Marsh it was agreed that he would be stepping down as manager.

 "Mick has a demanding job and I think he was finding it increasingly difficult to fulfill his duties as manager.

" On behalf of the club, I would like to thank Mick for all the good work and time he has donated to the club over the past decade and wish him all the best for the future.

"I will be taking over as manager with immediate effect and Dave Fear has been asked to stay at the club.

"A further statement will be made from the club regarding long term plans over the next few days."

 Sholing are in FA Trophy first qualifying round action on Saturday, at home to Tiverton Town.