DIDCOT Town’s long-serving captain Jamie Heapy will miss the start of their Calor League season after having a knee operation.

The 34-year-old defender, who made his 800th appearance for the club last season, has had surgery on the joint which was troubling him towards the end of the campaign. He is expected to be out for up to two months.

He remains skipper, with Luke Carnell taking over as vice-captain.

Didcot trounced local rivals Abingdon Town 11-2 in a pre-season friendly. After the game, Town boss Shaun Smith quit due to personal reasons. Gavin Jones has taken temporary charge.