MARK Hawkes has admitted that he couldn’t turn down the chance to take over at Chelmsford City.

The former Heybridge Swifts manager was confirmed as the new Clarets boss at 10am yesterday.

He replaces Dean Holdsworth, who was sacked by the Skrill South strugglers on November 4.

And reflecting on a move that has been met with surprise in the non-league community, Hawkes said it was too good an opportunity to turn down - and that it was a “tremendous achievement” to have landed the post.

“Every now and then opportunities come along that you can’t turn down,” he said.

“This was one of those occasions.

“It’s a big club and a big step up, but I feel I’ve earned it, because of what I’ve achieved at Swifts.

“I’ve worked hard for this chance, starting at the bottom of the non-league game, wheeling and dealing with minimal budgets, and working my way up.

“Man-management is a big thing for me.

“Regardless of whether their young players or senior ones, I pride myself on getting people to play for me.

“Now I can’t wait to get started at Chelmsford."

For the full story, see Friday's Daily Gazette.