New Tonbridge manager Jay Saunders has got straight to work - releasing six players.

Saunders, unveiled as Steve McKimm's successor last night, has said goodbye to defender Jerry O'Sullivan, midfielders Tom Beere and Aaron Smith-Joseph, and strikers Ibrahim Olutade, Jake Embery and Adam Coombes.

"It's always the most difficult part of a manager's role in telling players they do not feature in future plans," said Saunders.

"There's never an easy way to do it but I have to say, whilst disappointed, they have all accepted and understood the situation.

"I wish them all the very best in the future."

Tonbridge thanked the released players for their "huge contribution to the first team", and said Saunders would have discussions with the remainder of the squad, who finished 16th in National South.

Saunders, who won three promotions in four seasons during a seven-year spell at Maidstone, left Margate to take charge at Tonbridge.

Gate have appointed Whitstable boss Andy Drury as his successor at Hartsdown Park.