RAMSBOTTOM United chairman Harry Williams is refusing to push the panic button as the hunt for a new manager picks up pace.

United will start interviewing next week for the vacancy, which came up when Andy Grimshaw resigned last week over work and family commitments.

Already Williams has been sifting through the many applications, which include former Bolton Wanderers goalkeeper David Felgate.

Other names thought to be in the frame include former Congleton boss Bryan Griffiths and Nick Davies, who led Stand Athletic to the NWCL Division Two title in 2002.

But Williams insists assistant manager Ged Walsh, who has also expressed an interest after stepping into Grimshaw's shoes last week, will continue to take charge at the Riverside until such a time as the right man is appointed.

However, Mark Molyneaux, who has kept goal for the Rams since being sacked by Chorley, will not be in contention as he has taken over at Salford City.

Williams said: "The process begins in earnest on Monday, when we start the interviewing process.

"There are quite a few interesting applications and someone like Felgate has vast experience of the game.

"Ged has also said he might be interested in the position, but the way I see it there is no rush.

"It's imperative we make the right decision for the immediate and long term future of the football club and however long that takes, so be it.

"It's not a short-term fix we are looking for - it's a long term plan. Everybody is looking towards finishing first or second in the league, but you also have to look to do that the right way."

Williams, who held the manager's post himself for 18 years, added: "The problem clubs at this level often encounter is finding someone who can strike that balance between home life, work and running a football team."

Walsh did his own hopes no harm at all with the midweek cup win over Barrow, and will be hoping for more of the same at home to St Helens Town in NWCL One tomorrow.

Paul Eatock has been signed on loan from Chorley to replace Molyneaux between the sticks.