Mark Stimson signs long-term deal with Kettering Town

Stimson took charge of the Poppies' 2-0 win over Lincoln City

Kettering Town manager Mark Stimson has finally signed a contract with the club until the end of 2013-14 with a club having an option for another year.

There had been a delay of more than week for a deal to be signed after the former Barnet boss was first unveiled and he even managed them to a win over Lincoln last Saturday.

"He had incredible success at Grays and Stevenage," chairman Imraan Ladak said.

"It is vital that we have a period of managerial stability."

He added: "It's something we have not had since Mark Cooper left.

"Until our move to Nene Park, the club was unable to compete in the play-offs which affected our ability to be truly competitive in this division.

"With that obstacle removed, we have to look to build towards challenging for a place in the football league and Mark certainly has the calibre to achieve this over the coming seasons.

"He is one of a handful of managers that have successfully combined results with an offensive and attractive style of football at this level.

"He has an excellent record for identifying, developing and preparing players for football at a much higher level."

Stimson will take charge of his second match against Tamworth, managed by former Poppies boss Marcus Law.

The game at Nene Park also marks the launch of a new, lower ticket prices for home games.

Ladak told BBC Radio Northampton: "In pre-season, we sold about 1,100 season tickets in 10 days. That was triple what we were expecting and more than double the previous record, so obviously the price makes a massive difference.

"No-one wants to play in an 80% empty stadium. Part of the buzz of football is the atmosphere supporters generate."