Keith Carter is the new part-time safety officer at Oxford United following the departure of Tony Ashley to Brentford.

Carter was Ashley's deputy and he takes over with a ringing endorsement from his predecessor, who had been associated with the U's for 22 years and said he was "devastated" to be leaving.

"I wish Keith and all the safety officers well," said Ashley. "I feel I've left the club in a far better position than when I arrived, in that we've got dedicated stewards, all well trained, and they go about their job in a very professional manner, particularly compared to other clubs in the Conference."

He had worked for 15 years for United and the last six and a half years for the stadium company.

But he had become increasingly disillusioned by his role, claiming it was little more than a glorified odd-job man around the ground.

He took over as stadium manager and safety officer at Brentford's Griffin Park on Monday.

Like Ashley before him, Carter will be liaising with clubs Oxford United visit.