Witney United have announced the appointment of Andy Townsend as their new manager.

Andy Townsend Townsend, who has been manager of Old Woodstock Town for the last three years, has experience of Hellenic League football both as a player and a manager.

He steered Old Woodstock to sixth place last season.

Witney United, who were formed following the demise of Witney Town, had a disappointing first season in the Hellenic League under Ian Feaver, and were among the relegation candidates, but chairman Philip Webb believes there are brighter prospects for the new season.

He said: "We have appointed Andy because of his knowledge and experience of Hellenic League football, and his contacts among good quality local players.

"He is a young and ambitious manager who is determined to manage at a higher level. The job at Witney provides him with that opportunity.

"I have no doubt that with Andy's background and high level of commitment, Witney United have an exciting season ahead of them and will be aiming for promotion.

"Witney United have ambitions to get a team back in the Southern League, and we have the facilities necesseary to play at that level."

Townsend added: "I'm delighted to be the new manager of Witney United and look forward to making the club one that the town can be proud of.

"This is a significant step forward for me, and I'm confident of bringing success to the club.

"I expect to put in a strong challenge for promotion this season, and I am very keen to get started."

Townsend will now need to get a side together, as Witney already have their eye on their first pre-season friendly - a home game with Swindon Town on July 17.

Pre-season training is due to start at the end of this month.