Boss Dowson quits Hampton to take over at Woking

Alan Dowson has left Hampton & Richmond Borough to become the new manager of Woking.

The 47-year-old’s decision to quit the Beveree comes just days after his side’s National League South play-off final defeat by Braintree Town.

Coach Martin Tyler will follow him to Woking, who were relegated from the National League last season.

Speaking to Hampton’s official website, Dowson said: “I have had to make the hardest decision of my managerial career, to leave a club I hold in the greatest regard.

“My thoughts are constantly turning to the wonderful people attached to Hampton & Richmond Borough as well as the hundreds of loyal and supportive fans who have cheered myself and the players to a string of achievements in the last four seasons.

“But you have to reach out for challenges in life, and the one that presents itself now is a daunting one as I will be charged with returning a National League heavyweight to its rightful place back in the top flight of non-League football.”

Dowson became the Beavers’ boss in September 2014 after moving from Kingstonian, and in his second season led them to promotion from the Isthmian Premier Division.

He then led them to two play-off campaigns in the National League South, the last culminating in heartbreak against Braintree on Sunday.

Meanwhile, Southern League Division One South East side Northwood have also appointed a new manager on Wednesday.

Dean Barker, 34, joins from Wingate & Finchley, where he had been managing the Under-23 side.