Andy Ballard confirmed as Didcot Town’s permanent manager

DIDCOT TOWN have confirmed player-manager Andy Ballard has been named the club’s permanent manager following a successful spell in caretaker charge.

Ballard took over from long-serving managerial duo Ian Concannon and Jamie Heapy following their resignations in December.

The Railwaymen have won eight of their 14 league games in 2016 and Ballard has shown enough to be given the job on a permanent basis.

Vice-chairman Paul Chalk said: “We’re safe now this season and the aim is to grow and that’s what we’ll do.

“Andy is a fantastic bloke and brilliant communicator. He has proven himself already and hopefully that will continue.”

A club statement added: “We are pleased to announce that Andy Ballard has been confirmed as permanent manager of Didcot Town FC.

“Following the resignations of Ian Concannon and Jamie Heapy in December, Andy was appointed caretaker manager. Following the turn of the year, the team’s performances have been excellent which led to the club offering the position on a permanent basis which he has accepted.

“We can also confirm that Ian Lovegrove will continue as assistant manager with Ballard, having started a successful partnership at the club.”