THE new chairman of Oxford United supporters’ group OxVox has promised to breathe fresh air into the club.

From this week Mark Sennett, 26, officially takes the reins from outgoing chairman Trevor Lambert, who has held the position since 2005.

He says his first task will be to appeal for more members.

The trust was set up in 2002 as an independent voice for Oxford United FC fans.

Since its inception its significant achievements have included setting up the 12th man fund, which raises money for the club’s transfer kitty, and acting as a bridge between supporters and the club’s owners.

Last year the group paid for yellow and blue placards, celebrating the team’s achievements over the years, to be added to the South Stand to mark the club’s return to the Football League.

Mr Sennett, of Marston, said he was looking forward to taking a new approach and moving the trust forward.

He said: “The committee members who are leaving have been doing it for 10 years, and they have had some fantastic achievements.

“The 12th man fund was a massive success as were the stadium boards.

“Now we are keen to increase the excellent relationship we have with the club.

“We have got some fresh ideas and big plans.”

Mr Sennett said he was keen to promote the younger image that OxVox had moved towards.

He said: “The average age of trust members is 35 and around half of us sit in the East Stand.

“What we want to do over the next 12 months is make people more aware of who we are and that what we do is represent the fans.”

Secretary Chris Davis, treasurer Neil Carter and Tim Rosser are also standing down from the committee.

The changeover was announced at OxVox’s AGM, held at the Kassam Stadium ahead of the U’s 2-1 home win over Crewe Alexandra on Saturday.

Last night Oxford United chairman Kelvin Thomas thanked the outgoing committee members.

He said: “The club would like to go on record to wish the members of OxVox who are stepping down the best of luck in their future endeavours.

“The club feels the relationship with OxVox has been developed positively in the last few years and this is mainly due to the work of Trevor Lambert and other members of the committee.

“We meet regularly for discussion and Trevor, Tim, Chris and Neil have all worked tirelessly for the benefit of OxVox, and in turn the club.

“The club will continue to work with the new board and meet at least quarterly and hopes to develop the same open, honest and trusting relationship.”

Among the proposals Mr Sennett is drawing up is the chance for OxVox members to quiz broadcaster, well-known U’s fan, and board member Jim Rosenthal at an event next month.If you would like to join OxVox go to vox.org.uk for details