The hunt for AFC Telford United’s new manager is hotting up – with the Board drawing up a shortlist of  “fewer than 10″.

More than 20 contenders have thrown their hat into the ring to succeed Rob Smith as boss of the Blue Square North club.

Big names including Tim Flowers, Andy Sinton, Jeff Kenna and Mark Cooper have either confirmed an interest or been linked.

And a host of experienced non-League bosses already in employment are thought to have made inquiries.

The likes of Northwich manager Andy Preece, Stalybridge chief Jim Harvey and Hinckley’s Dean Thomas could be contenders.

The interview process promises to be a tough task for chairman Lee Carter and his fellow directors – though they have been delighted with the quality of the candidates.

“We met for 2hrs 20mins last night and pretty much the sole issue on the agenda was whittling down our list,” Carter revealed.

“We’re hoping to start to talk to one or two people later this week and in the early part of next week.

“There are a range of people on our list – from inexperienced people who have got a hunger to get on the ladder, to people with a more experienced record. We’ve got a list of less than 10 so far.”

Carter also revealed that the Bucks would be extending the deadline for supporters to buy season tickets for next term at early bird prices.

The original deadline expired on April 30 but the scheme has been re-opened and will run until June 1.

“We’ve had a terrific response to the early bird offer, with 50 per cent of season ticket holders renewing so far,” said Carter.

“We’ve extended it a bit further to the same time as it ran last year to give more people a chance to renew at the cheaper price.

By Chris Hudson