Witney United have appointed former Witney Town winger Darren Teggart as their new manager.

Teggart steps up from his role as youth team boss to take charge of the first team in the UHLSport Hellenic League Premier Division.

He successfully led Witney’s under 18 team to the Allied Counties Youth League North Division title last season, and will be a popular choice with supporters.

He replaces Andy Lyne, who stepped down to become assistant boss at Didcot Town.

Teggart, who made more than 300 appearances for Witney Town, said: “Managing my local team is something I’ve always wanted to do.

“Managing Witney is a dream come true for me.

“I know it’s going to be tough. We will be working on a tight budget, and I need to get local players who want to play at the next level.

“I think there is plenty of local talent about. It’s whether they are prepared to put in the effort and travel a bit.”

Teggart was in charge of Witney’s title-winning under 18s last season, and he hopes that many of that successful squad will make the next step.

He said: “The under 18s were a good squad. They did really well and it’s a natural progression for them to move on to the first team.

“The work we put in together was always 100 per cent.

“Of course it will be a more physical challenge for those under 18s stepping up, but they will have to learn quickly.

“Some of them will not like being kicked up in the air, but some will be up for the challenge.”

Contrary to popular belief, Witney will operate on a small budget next season as they seek to stay financially viable as a club.

But Teggart is not concerned about that.

He said: “The important thing at this club is that we don’t live beyond our means. It’s a case of consolidating our finances and stabilise to get the club onto a good footing.

“This is my first taste of senior management. I enjoyed managing the under 18s and I can’t wait to get started.

“Obviously you can’t replace playing, but this is the next best thing.

“To take over from Andy Lyne is a massive challenge. To step into his shoes on a tight bedget and keep the same level will be tough.

“I think we’ll be alright, but I’m under no illusions about challenging for the title.

“I hope that some of last season’s players will stay on and help us to build what we already have. To get a good blend of youth and experience is really important and we will always be positive and try to play attractive football.”