STUART Watkiss insists Kidderminster's relegation has strengthened his desire to be a success at Aggborough after branding it the lowest point of his career.

The former Mansfield boss was forced to concede defeat in his brave bid to rescue Harriers when Saturday's loss at Boston left them needing a mathematical miracle.

But although, by his own admission, Watkiss is a failure for failing to keep Kidderminster up, he is more determined than ever to make amends.

"Hand on heart I honestly thought I could come in and play my part in keeping the club afloat and it's an awful feeling that I haven't done it.

"People have been very kind and said if you'd have come in earlier, maybe maybe maybe, but deep down I feel as if I have failed."

Despite Harriers' relegation, Watkiss has no regrets about returning to the cut and thrust of management and admits his biggest challenge is recruiting players who share his burning passion for the game.

"I'm glad I took on the challenge because genuinely I think I'm good at it and that might seem strange coming from a manager that's just been relegated," he said.

"I left a good job at Barnsley working on the youth and developing players and that's something I really enjoy.

"But there's nothing quite like being in the firing line.

"I've got the passion, the desire and the will. I want to be the best I possibly can as a manager and a coach and I want to get as far as I possibly can in the game.

"I want players to have exactly the same passion and fire in their bellies that I do."

Watkiss has experienced the highs and lows of managing in the higher leagues, leading Mansfield to promotion, only to be rewarded with the sack soon after.

And the 38-year-old believes the pain of relegation will inspire him to throw all of his efforts into getting Harriers back up at the first attempt next season.

"This is by far the worst I've ever felt in football and it's worse than being sacked by Mansfield," he said.

"Both experiences are not pleasant, it's an awful feeling and it's going to be a low time for the club.

"I sampled promotion at Mansfield and that's the best feeling in the world when you're carried off on the fans' shoulders, but you've got to work your socks off for those occasions.

"I'm not scared of working and I certainly want to sample a promotion party again so I'll be going all out to make sure that that happens.

"Hopefully this time next year I'm talking to you about promotion back into the Football League because that would be a massive achievement."

l As a goodwill gesture to their loyal fans, Harriers have decided to subsidise coach travel for their last away match in the Football League at Northampton on May 7.

Seats for the trip to Sixfields would have cost £7 but the club are meeting the cost to say thank-you to supporters for following the team throughout a difficult season.

All bookings must be made by noon on Thursday, May 5. Call 01562 823931 for further details.