JOE Keith has been appointed as the new manager of Tilbury.

The Dockers have been searching for a new boss since Gary Henty tendered his resignation earlier this month.

And Tilbury chairman Danny Nash was delighted to confirm Keith as the new chief.

Nash said: “It has been a tough week after receiving a high number of applicants, but Joe was the best appointment for the club at this time and I am excited he has agreed to join us.

"I am confident that Joe and John will bring some good times back to the club."

Keith joins the club from Canvey Island, where he enjoyed a short spell as coach.

Keith had previously spent five successive years at East Thurrock United as first team coach.  

During his playing career, Keith played professionally for clubs including Colchester United, Leyton Orient and Brentford.

He dropped into non-league football in 2007 with AFC Hornchurch, before going on to play for East Thurrock, where he would later become a coach under manager John Coventry.

Keith also had two successful years at Chadfields as player coach, winning the League Cup. 

Keith will meet his new squad for the first time on Tuesday night, when Tilbury welcome Harlow Town to Chadfields in the Essex Senior Cup, before having a break in action for two weeks.