Paul Olsson has been made Scarborough Athletic's manager on a permanent basis, the KoolSport NCEL Premier Division club have announced today.

The interview panel, which comprised Club Chairman Richard Adamson, Director of Football Tony Brown and Club President John Fawcett met with a number of the aspiring applicants over the last few days before reaching their decision.

Adamson said: "Scarborough Athletic is currently punching well below its weight.

"We have a successful reserve side, a new under-19 team and an incredibly loyal fan base who nevertheless expect us to make progress up the football ladder in anticipation of a return to the Borough.

"We knew the role would attract interest, but we have been amazed at the quality of applicant, three of whom were exceptional.

"Paul, who has been in temporary charge of first team affairs since Brian France was hospitalised in September, convinced the interview panel with his vision of what will be needed to take the team forward; both for the remainder of the current season and into the future."

Adamson continued: "We have already seen early promise over the last few weeks of what Paul and his assistant, Darren France want to achieve.

"We have seen that they can attract quality players to strengthen the side, and the dressing room is clearly behind them.

"The Club is confident that with Paul in charge of the team we will move up the League and challenge for the top places by the end of the season. We also hope to make further progress in the FA Vase.

"Paul already knows of our decision and is delighted with the news.

"The appointment will also be welcomed by Darren France who will become Paul's permanent assistant manager, alongside the backroom staff of Karen Hankey, Brian Waltham, Andy Woodhead and Dave Jackson.

"May I also take this opportunity to thank all the other applicants on behalf of the board for their interest in our club."