Hampton & richmond Borough chairman Steve McPherson believes the appointment of new manager Alan Dowson may have been written in the stars.

The 44-year-old was unveiled as the new Beveree chief yesterday after the resignation of joint managers Paul Barry and Darren Powell in the wake of Saturday's 3-2 FA Cup first qualifying round defeat to VCD Athletic.

Former Millwall and Darlington defender Dowson returns to the Ryman Premier League having resigned from the hotseat at Kingstonian in the summer. 

The ex-Walton & Hersham boss won the Ryman Division One South title at Kingsmeadow and reached the Ryman Premier League play-off final during his tenure in charge.

He has been out of work since quitting Ks after their play-off semi-final defeat to AFC Hornchurch at the end of last season.

McPherson moved quickly to get his man in place after meeting with Dowson on Sunday morning and making the announcement later the same day to usher in a new era at Station Road. 

"I am delighted to present Alan as our new manager - a man held in high esteem throughout non-League football," said the chairman.

"We sat down for coffee on Sunday morning and instantly I recommended him to the board. We can't wait for the start of our new era.

"I was taken aback by his enthusiasm to be involved and take our club forward. His passion is infectious. He lives two minutes from the Beveree so perhaps it is meant to be?

"It was all very quick and I believe we have the right man at the helm. I am absolutely sure that, given time, Dowse will bring exciting times to Hampton & Richmond."

Barry and Powell stepped down on Saturday with the disappointing cup exit proving to be the final straw for the pair, who had seen their side concede 28 goals in their opening 10 games this season.

Barry told McPherson his decision on Saturday night having accepted he and Powell had taken the club as far as they could.

"It was not a nice conversation to have with Paul [Barry] as we as a board have only good things to say about them both," said McPherson.

"I feel the fact they came to this decision speaks volumes for them both.

"They could have continued, but for the good of the club they wanted to allow another manager the opportunity to come in and try to turn things around.

"For that, they need enormous credit. They will both be welcome at Hampton & Richmond any time.

"I feel the players need to be asking themselves some tough questions. Their performances have not helped and I feel they have let themselves and Paul and Darren down at times."