Michael Spencer and Billy Holland will remain at the Waltham Abbey helm until at least the end of the season, the club has confirmed.

Club captain Holland and former player Spencer were put in interim charge of the Abbott’s at the end of November following Mark Stimson’s departure to AFC Hornchurch.

The pair helped Abbey to get back on track in the Bostik South Central Division after a disappointing run of form, guiding them to three straight victories before suffering a first setback on Saturday when they were beaten 2-1 at home by Ware.

Chairman John Martin told the club website: “Having discussed the position with other senior officials at the club, we felt it was in our best interests at this time to appoint Billy and Michael as managers.

“They both have their heart in the club and were itching to take on the challenge ahead with enthusiasm and passion for our set up.

“Bringing in a new manager at this time would again cause uncertainty and instability and they both have the chance now to show their credentials going forward.

“As a club we are happy to embrace the future with Michael and Billy and we thank all those who applied for the vacancy over the preceding weeks.”

The Abbott’s were forced to play catch up after Albert Adu fired Ware in front six minutes before the interval on Saturday.

However, the hosts were back on terms 10 minutes after the interval when Christian Assombalonga struck the equaliser.

But it was to be Adu who proved to be the match winner, netting his second of the contest 20 minutes from the end of normal time to seal the points for the visitors.

Despite the defeat, Abbey remain firmly in the promotion hunt and are fifth in the table, four points behind Hayes & Yeading United, although they have played three games more than the table toppers.