After a whirlwind few days, Alfreton Town embark on a fresh and exciting new era on Saturday when highly fancied King’s Lynn Town visit Derbyshire in the Enterprise National League North.

Highly respected manager Billy Heath departed the club earlier this week following a heavy defeat on the road against Oxford City on Tuesday night.

Heath leaves an unforgettable mark on the club through his unwavering dedication and tireless work ethic. During his seven-year spell in the managerial hot seat at the Impact Arena, he consistently defied the odds under difficult circumstances and delivered remarkable success.

From a record equalling run to the Emirates FA Cup Second Round Proper, to a record equalling run to the FA Trophy Fourth Round, as well as steering the club through a global pandemic, Billy oversaw a storied chapter in Reds history filled with moments that will live long in the memory of supporters near and far.

However, it has been a tough start to the season for the Reds, and a 5-0 defeat at Oxford City, a second successive away loss to a side below them in the table, proved to be Heath’s final game in charge.

Billy Heath’s overall record as Alfreton Town manager stands at: Played 323, Won 123, Drew 88, Lost 112.

Everyone at the club owes Billy a debt of gratitude and wishes him the very best in his future endeavours.

The end of one era signals the beginning of another. It was announced that Alfreton Town Under-23 Manager, Demaro Woodruffe, has been appointed Interim First Team Manager, assisted by Ryan Conneely and Calum Flanagan.

Woodruffe has been Director of the Global Performance Academy for several years, working with a number of clubs including Reading FC and Langley FC. With extensive experience in developing young talent, his academy has consistently produced players who have climbed the Non-League ladder. Demaro has a keen eye for talent and player development.

He will be assisted by Ryan Conneely, who brings significant experience across the football sector. Ryan was most recently First Team Coach at Quorn AFC and previously spent eight months with Northern Premier League Division One side Hednesford Town. He has also worked as an opposition scout for EFL clubs Ipswich Town and Grimsby Town. Beyond that, Ryan has spent time coaching in the USA, scouting in India, and holds a UEFA A License. His varied career includes time with the Gordon Strachan Foundation and five years managing Nuneaton Town Ladies in the National Women’s Premier Division.

Furthermore, Conneely has previously worked alongside the third member of the interim management team, Calum Flanagan, during their time together at Redditch United in the Southern League Central under Tim Flowers’ management. The pair departed the Worcestershire club in November 2024.

Alfreton head into Saturday’s fixture in 22nd place, having slipped into the relegation zone following the midweek defeat at Oxford City.

King’s Lynn, meanwhile, have undergone a transformation of their own this summer. With new ownership under Singapore-based Turn Sports Investments (TSI), Stephen Cleeve has made way, and the new regime wasted no time in appointing former Chesterfield and AFC Fylde boss James Rowe as manager. The Linnets currently sit seventh, just inside the play-offs, and despite a midweek defeat to Kidderminster Harriers, they promise to be a stern test for Alfreton’s interim management team.

The lads and management need the Ofton faithful to come out in force on Saturday, backing the team as they look to return to winning ways ahead of a tricky Emirates FA Cup tie at Spalding United next week.

Online Tickets Encouraged

To help speed up entry at the turnstiles and assist the club in planning food, drink, and staffing requirements, supporters are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance online via: [url=https://ticketpass.org/event/ETMALW/alfreton-town-fc-v-kings-lynn-town-3[/url]

Tickets will also be available on the gate via cash or card, but buying online helps everyone enjoy a smoother matchday experience.

Please note this fixture is segregated. We kindly ask that away supporters enter the Impact Arena via the Alma Street entrance and home supporters asked to enter via the Bentley Road end of the Arena

Travel

Leave the M1 at Junction 28, then take the A38 towards Derby for two miles, before heading off on the B600 slip road. At the T-junction, turn right towards the town centre and turn left at the pedestrian crossing into North Street, the ground is on the right-hand side.

Parking

Pay and display parking is available on Rogers Lane (DE55 7FF) and also at Severn Square (DE55 7BT) both are a 5-10 minute walk from the ground. Surrounding areas and neighbouring streets are also available, but we request that you are respectful of local residents and not to block driveways.

Club Shop

The club shop will be open before the match stocking official club merchandise. The club shop is immediately right once you enter through the main turnstiles.