NEW Melksham Town boss Kieran Baggs has promotion on his mind after taking the helm at Oakfields Stadium.

The 28-year-old was assistant manager to Darren Perrin, who has become chairman of the Toolstation Premier Division side in a reshuffle which sees existing supremo Dave Wiltshire stepping back from his duties.

Baggs’ most notable managerial moment came when he guided Trowbridge Town to the Wiltshire League title in 2015. From there, he linked up with Perrin with the intention of taking over at the end of next season, but those plans have since been brought forward.

“When I left Trowbridge, I pretty much had every Western League club offer me to go over. I spoke to Bradford (Town) and that was something I could have done,” said the 28-year-old.

“To go and learn my trade behind Darren, who is one of the most successful managers at our level, was something I thought would be brilliant for my education.

“It was meant to be two years, but I had a phone call about two weeks ago saying they’ll be some changes at the club and whether I would be ready to take over.

“It has come around quicker than I thought, but I’m still ready to take on the challenge.”

As Perrin remains at the club, albeit in a different role, Baggs admits it would be foolish to not exploit his mentor’s knowledge for guidance.

“It would be stupid of me not to take any advice and his wealth of experience, playing under him and working with him has been great for me,” he added.

“The only style there is depends on the team we are playing, if we need to play direct, then we will play direct.

“The style of play will suit who we are playing, instead of being a team who are easy to read, “You can’t really knock what Darren has done. He’s got a trophy every single year, regardless of the style of play. I’m sure the fans will pick winning trophies and being successful over looking good every week.

“We need to kick on from last season, and be up and around the top five again this season.”

Perrin, whose father Mick was a past chairman of Town, added: “It is an incredible honour to be asked to become chairman and one that I will endeavour to do to the best of my ability.

“I am under no illusions on how hard a task it will be to follow in the footsteps of Dave Wiltshire who has worked tirelessly and who was the leading figure for both the football and rugby clubs in helping us get the magnificent facilities that we have today at Oakfields.”

Wiltshire steps back after seven years at the helm, during which he helped oversee the club’s move to their new purpose-built home, but will continue to help the business side of the club.