Jon Taylor has announced his management team for the new season, and although there are no real surprises, one addition may (or may not) raise the odd eyebrow.
Jon’s pedigree comes mainly from around the Bedfordshire/Cambridgeshire area, managing Arlesey Town, St. Neots Town, and in the late 90’s was even assistant manager at the Eagles, as well as playing for the club he loves. Jon managed Hereford United just before they folded, although it was like trying to bail the Titanic with a teaspoon with the budget he was given (remember Lee Bearman’s budget), and that season, Hereford finished in a very creditable mid table position.
Jon will have two assistants in Gil Octave and Jack Cassidy. Both assistants are committed to Bedford Town, and both are passionate about preparing the players for each match. Gil is the longest serving under Jon Taylor. Jack came in from St. Ives Town in January this year after helping them gain promotion from our division the season previous.
The goalkeeping coach is Brian ‘Mappers’ Mapley. Brian quietly goes about his business, but don’t be fooled. Bedford Town ‘keepers have all benefited from his experience. Just ask Nathan Huff, just 17 and thrust into a big game at the tail end of last season.
Last but not least in the management team is Paul Benson. Paul has agreed to become the player coach. His League and top Non-League experience will help the players immensely. Paul is also in the latter stages of completing his UEFA ‘A’ licence, which will provide a great help to BTFC going forward, especially assisting Jack Cassidy on the coaching side.

Jon Taylor said, “it is with great pleasure that we bring Paul on board to my management team. This will provide a great platform for the club’s development, and shows our intentions and aspirations at BTFC, giving the fans no doubt that the structure put in place is to help us hit our five year plan to move up the pyramid.
Paul Benson has also agreed terms with me as a player, and with his experience, is a massive signing at this level.
I am sure that the new season will push us on as a club - as we have been hovering at step 4 for too many seasons - and take us into step 3.
I am confident that the infrastructure at the club, plus our facilities will help us to achieve our goals.
Luton Town apart, we are the only club in Bedfordshire that has the backing, ambition, and, of course, the great support from our family of fans to sustain the high level of football we all expect.”