SOUTHEND Manor are under new ownership after Jerry Omango completed his takeover of the club.

Omango has taken control of the Essex Senior League side, replacing Steve Robinson as chairman.

And Omango is eager to bring success to Southchurch Park.

Speaking exclusively to Echosport, Omango said: “Southend Manor is a massive club within the town and community.

“It has a fantastic history and heritage and I would really like to build on this and bring success and a family atmosphere to the club.

“This club has great potential and that’s a key reason for me purchasing Southend Manor.

“I have been looking to buy a club for nearly two years and when this came up it was a fantastic opportunity to come into a club in senior football at step five.

“I want to take the club forward and the club has lots of potential and great heritage.

“The club should be a massive part of the town and community.

“At the moment, I don’t feel it is but that is the plan.

“Steve has stabilised the club during his seven years as chairman and it is in a good position in terms of finances.

“He will be staying around the club to support the transition.”

And Omango is looking forward to getting involved on the non-league scene, having worked extensively in grassroots football.

“For the last 17 years, I have been in grassroots football running a big youth set-up at Leyton United,” added Omango.

“At Leyton United, we have expanded the club and pushed lots of players into professional clubs.

“We have built that through working with the community and having a great club.

“Football is in my heart and I can’t wait for this new challenge in front of me.”

Manor finished the Essex Senior League campaign in 17th place and recorded five victories from the final eight encounters.

And Omango is keen to get the local community involved while enjoying success.

The 50-year-old admitted: “The short-term and long-term plans are to start building a solid foundation so that we can take the club forward.

“I am really keen to get the community involved in the club.

“I want to embrace the local community, schools and youth.

“It’s important to structure the club in my way and start to build a successful first team and youth academy.

“The community is massive. We want families coming to the games and becoming part of the club.

“We want young children to have a place to play football and enjoy it.”