CRAIG Dore and Darren James are in confident mood after becoming North Leigh’s joint-managers.

The duo have taken over from John Brough at the west Oxfordshire outfit for the 2018-9 campaign.

The Millers’ existence in Evo-Stik South League was called into question last season, when they were danger of being relegated.

Despite being troubled by financial restraints, they survived. But Brough decided to call it a day after two years.

He has been replaced by Dore and his lifelong friend James, who are upbeat about turning their fortunes around.

“I’m optimistic about the future,” said Dore, 44, who ended a career which included spells at Brackley Town, Oxford City and Witney Town, in the Millers’ A team.

“When we heard that chairman Pete King wanted to use more local players, we were keen to take over.

“It will be tough early on (for the young players) at a higher level. But I’m sure that talent is there among the young players for us to be successful. No problem.”

And Dore is quite happy with the club’s finances.

He said: “Although the budget is well down on last season, it’s workable. We can live with it.”

The duo, who led Oxford City Under 18s to the Allied Counties Youth league and cup double last season, have already made two signings.

Striker Henry Landers, from City, and Kidlington central defender Ben Brown have joined the East Division club.

Meanwhile, Sharon James has taken over as secretary, following the retirement of Keith Huxley.

NORTH LEIGH’S PRE-SEASON FRIENDLIES

Tues July 17 v Redditch (a); Fri July 20 v Ardley Utd (a); Sat July 28 v Easington (a); Thurs August 2 v Wantage Tn (h).