Smith commits to Pitmen

Hednesford Town's promotion winning manager Rob Smith committed his future to the Pitmen on Wednesday.

Smith, who led his side to victory in the Evo-Stik Northern Premier League’s top flight play-off final with victory over FC United of Manchester, pictured, has signed a two year contract to keep him at Keys Park until 2015.

The Pitmen's manager was rewarded with a new deal after leading the Conference North new boys to an unprecedented treble by winning both the Staffordshire Senior Cup and Birmingham Senior Cup.

Hednesford kick off in their first Conference North campaign since 2006 in August and a delighted Smith said: "This squad have been a joy to work with and I was very keen to continue in the development of my team at what is a very appealing standard of football.

"I am also very content at the club, everyone has been great to me ever since I joined. The people at the club and the supporters are superb."

Smith has also been buoyed by news that his former assistant Larry Chambers is returning after taking a year's break from the game. Fans' favourite Chris Brindley is staying on Smith's coaching staff after ably deputising during the past year.

Smith added: "The decision to bring Larry back into the fold was an easy one. He has been my right hand man for twelve years and instrumental in many of the current signings.

"Chris was also a great help to me last year and very popular with the players so having them both on board, as well as Steve Wynn, will mean we have a very strong and experienced management team going into the new season."