JAMES Webster has admitted that Aveley's ambition and Parkside facilities were major reasons for his decision to take over as manager of the club.

Webster was unveiled as Terry Spillane's successor after tendering his resignation at Brightlingsea Regent last night.

And the new boss is delighted to have been named the new Millers boss.

Webster said: "Aveley have fantastic new facilities - the best I've ever seen in non-league football - and so much ambition.

"They sold the club to me, when I met them, and I definitely see it as a long-term project.

"I was so impressed and when they offered me the job straight away, I just knew I had to take it."

Webster leaves Brightlingsea Regent having enjoyed seven seasons at the helm.

In that time, Webster has led the R's to four promotions - including winning the Isthmian North title by 14 points last season.

And Webster, who guided Brightlingsea Regent from the Essex and Suffolk Border League to the Isthmian Premier League, confirmed that it was a difficult decision to leave The Taydal Stadium.

Webster added: "In many ways, I'm devastated to be leaving Brightlingsea Regent.

"I had so many good times there and enjoyed a lot of success over the last eight years.

"It's the end of an era and I'll miss it terribly, but perhaps I've taken the club as far as I can.

"I feel the time is right to step down and take on a fresh challenge.

"People might question why I'm taking a step down and I understand that.

"I'd probably think the same thing if someone else was making the same move.

"However, I have my reasons and I honestly see it as taking one step back to take two forward.

"It's taking some time to get my head round and I'm so sad, but I honestly believe I'm doing the right thing."

Webster, who took charge of more than 400 games at Brightlingsea Regent, will be joined at Parkside by assistant manager Chris Smith.