ARDLEY United are hoping to begin a youth drive after announcing the latest name to join the club’s hierarchy.

Former Oxford United forward Paul Berry has agreed to become the Uhlsport Hellenic League side’s vice-chairman.

The 59-year-old made more than 100 appearances for the U’s during two stints at the club from 1977-82.

Berry, who was previously Ardley’s joint-manager alongside recently appointed chairman Ian Feaver, has also spent spells in charge of Bicester Town, Carterton Town and Abingdon Town.

But the north Oxfordshire club are hoping to make the most of his experience in youth football, having also been a coach in Oxford’s Centre of Excellence.

Ardley, who have also appointed Sharon Smith as the club's general manager, have teams in the under 9, 10 and 11 age groups, but Feaver is hoping to expand the set-up.

He said: “I need help to run the club, so I’ve brought in Paul as vice -chairman.

“It will also help put particular emphasis on developing the youth set-up we want to build over the next few years.”

Ardley are also looking to make first-team games more accessible to the youth team with a new membership scheme.

Feaver said: “We’re looking to attract local people in the community to come and watch.

“We’re also going to provide a member card for youth team players and their families to come and watch games for £5.”

Meanwhile, Ardley, who will play in Division 1 West next year after applying for relegation from the Premier Division, have announced three friendlies.

They will face Heyford Athletic away on July 6, before home fixtures against Bicester and Thame Rangers on July 21 and 25 respectively.