WESSEX Premier outfit Shaftesbury have announced ex-Christchurch boss Ollie Cherrett has joined them to make “big steps” for next season.

Cherrett last month announced he had resigned from his position as manager at Priory, after the club opted not to apply for promotion to step four.

Co-manager Wayne Smith has also joined the Rockies along with coaches Chris Hart, Will Robinson and Max Frampton.

Shaftesbury said: “We are delighted to announce we have appointed the following management team.

“We really hope we can see the club make big steps forward and look forward to the 21/22 season.”

During his previous managerial job, Cherrett guided Christchurch back into Wessex Premier and also took the club on runs in the FA Vase.

One of his most notable achievements at Priory came earlier this season, leading Christchurch into the third qualifying round of the FA Cup, before they were eventually beaten by a side competing three divisions above them in Dulwich Hamlet on penalties, a game broadcast by the BBC.

The group have joined Shaftesbury following the departure of former Wimborne Town boss Danny Holmes.

A post on Cherrett’s Twitter page read: “Looking forward to the challenge ahead. Hard work starts now.”

Meanwhile, Lymington Town are one of 20 clubs to have been promoted to step four next season and will compete in Southern League Division One South.