NEW boss Geoff Butler has urged Bashley fans to be patient as he rebuilds the New Forest side in the forthcoming months.

But the new man has also promised to try and put the smiles back on people's faces at the Recreation Ground after a disappointing effort last season.

Former Salisbury manager Butler was handed the Bash hot-seat after John Robson's departure in May but has been able to do little but watch on as the squad has disintegrated.

Long-serving players Andy Darnton and Mark Lisk have chosen to move on, along with at least six other first teamers.

With only a couple of players brought in so far to plug the gaps, Bash fans are forecasting another dismal campaign after they missed out on joining the new Ryman Premier Division last term.

But Butler, who has been told he will be working on a tight budget, remains cheerily optimistic and is just asking to be given a little time to work his magic.

He said: "I would ask the fans to be patient with us. The club is not as financially sound as others in the area and we have to cut our cloth accordingly.

"We might not have the strongest side yet but we will pick up players as the season progresses. It always happens as players find they're not playing at their clubs and we will end up with a squad of quality.

"I am speaking to players all the time and I know there are holes but economics dictate I can't just go out and buy players and even if I could, we still wouldn't be able to compete with most other sides.

"It's a long season and I'm always looking to strengthen as the season progresses so I'm not unduly worried."

Bash will be sailing into uncharted territory for much of the new campaign having been moved into the Isthmian League from the Southern League in the radical non-league shake-up.

AFC Wimbledon will be among the new visitors but Butler does not believe their new home will necessarily provide a sterner test.

He added: "I don't think it's a stronger division. The Dr Martens League was always strong throughout but the Ryman always seemed to have just six to eight sides who would rise to the top.

"A good start is always important regardless and a cup run could bring in some money for signings.

"It's not the easiest pre-season I've ever had but I aim to get the best out of the players I've got and I hope to put a smile back on the faces of the fans and committee members."

Bash kick-off with a trip to Croydon on August 14 (3pm kick-off) with Matt Jones and Richard Gillespie both expected to be fit despite limping off in Sunday's friendly defeat to Havant and Waterlooville.