JODY Brown is bracing himself for a hectic start to life as Heybridge Swifts manager.

The former Maldon and Tiptree assistant boss officially took the reins on Monday morning.

He replaces Mark Hawkes, who recently quit to take the vacant manager’s post at Conference South side Chelmsford City.

And in addition to the festive fixtures, he is also anticipating a busy time off the pitch, with comings and goings in terms of his playing squad.

Michael Toner has already joined from Maldon, as has Andy Joslin from Halstead Town.

Brown is expecting more activity and said: “There’s no doubting our squad is a little thin. We need an injection of bodies and I’m talking to a few players.

“I’m in a position to confirm a couple of additions but, on the flip side, approaches are in for three or four of our players.

“I want to keep them, but I wouldn’t stand in anyone’s way of playing at a higher level.

“Clearly, it might be that there are other departures.

“The next few days and weeks are going to be busy and, inevitably, there will be comings and goings.

“The club are embarking on a period of financial restructuring and I fully understand that.

“It’s not ideal but it adds to the challenge.

“I like the idea of maximising the talent available to me on the budget I’ve got.”

Brown watched on as Swifts won 1-0 at Waltham Abbey on Saturday, thanks to a goal from Michael Cheek.

They are at home to Dereham Town this weekend, before visiting Maldon for the big Boxing Day derby.