Chris Winton Joins The Pirates as Assistant Manager
Chris Winton joins the Pirates as Assistant Manager, bringing a wealth of experience from both the National League South and the Southern League.
Having spent much of his coaching career in assistant manager roles, Winton has built an impressive track record at Steps 2 and 3, contributing to promotion challenges and play off campaigns. Across his coaching journey, he has been involved in approximately 250 first-team matches, providing valuable experience and insight that will strengthen the Pirates’ management team.
Chris Winton’s first experience in senior management came at Kings Langley, where he served as Assistant Manager in the Southern League Premier Division during the 2018/19 season. The club enjoyed one of its strongest league campaigns in recent history, and Winton later returned in December 2022 as First-Team Manager.
Winton then spent three years as Assistant Manager at St Albans City, helping establish the club as consistent National League South play-off contenders. In 2023, he joined Slough Town before moving to Hemel Hempstead Town in 2024, where he worked alongside Lee Allinson as the club challenged for the play off places.
With extensive experience across several Step 2 clubs and a proven track record of success, Winton brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to Real Bedford.
Sinclair said: “I’m delighted to welcome Chris to Real Bedford. Chris brings experience, energy and a real desire to help players and staff improve. Just as importantly, he’s a great character who will fit seamlessly into our culture and environment.
He shares the values and ambition that are so important to us as a club, and I’m confident he’ll be a fantastic addition to the staff. We’re all looking forward to working with him and I’m excited to see the impact he’ll have as we continue to move the club forward.”
Chris on joining the Pirates: “I am very excited to join Real Bedford, an ambitious club with real intent and I’m eager to get to work right away! I have observed the impressive progress from a distance. The rapid rise in such a short time showcases the dedication and talent of Rob, his management team, the players, the chairman, and the board.
I believe my skills and experience at Step 2 can add value to the group as we work towards achieving the next chapter in this already successful history. As a local Bedford boy, I feel a genuine pride in being a part of this exciting project and I look forward to meeting everyone and connecting with the supporters. Up the Pirates!”
Welcome to the Pirates, Chris.
