Black takes the reins

Black (pictured) will be supported by former Belper Town player, Mick Norbury and Steve Ridley, who will also be registered as a player for the club.

Black, 34, was recently manager at Ossett Town FC and brings with him a wealth of playing experience in a career that started at Barnsley and went on to include spells at Harrogate Town, Stalybridge Celtic, Buxton, Bradford Park Avenue and North Ferriby United.

More recently, Black was player/coach under Mark Hume at Matlock Town before taking up the reins at Ossett Town where he took them to the divisional play-offs in 2017.

Announcing the decision, club director Dave Laughlin said,”Grant was the unanimous choice of the panel despite facing competition from a number of highly respected individuals.

“He impressed us with his knowledge of the Evo-Stik League and what it takes to be successful at this level.

“He has a great track record in the game and his professionalism, his passion for success alongside Mick and Steve, and his desire to turn the club’s fortunes around, made him the clear choice for the job.

“We welcome Grant and his team to the Marston’s Stadium and we look forward to seeing their impact on the fortunes of the club. We are sure that our supporters will be equally excited at the prospect of what he can bring to the club.”

Black himself was thrilled to secure the position, saying “From my perspective I’m excited and proud at becoming the new manager at Belper Town.

“We have had lots of opportunities since leaving our last post but various reasons, have not felt right.

“Belper however ticked all the boxes we were looking for in our next project we feel if we get it right on the pitch the club has massive potential to progress up the football pyramid.

“We were very successful on and off the field at our last club and we will be looking to do the same and more.

“Belper fans will be assured they will have a team that will be 110% committed to the football club and will give that commitment every time they wear the shirt.

“We want to build a team that can compete at this level and we hope to see the town get behind us and build a spirit between players and fans that will make teams coming to Belper envious.

“We will now start preparing for pre-season and can’t wait to get started. Mick Norbury said that he loved his time at Belper as a player and is looking forward to his role as assistant manager