DIDCOT Town boss Andy Ballard believes the experience gained last season will stand him and his side in good stead as he begins his preparations for his first full campaign in charge.

The midfielder took over managerial responsibilities last December, guiding the Railwaymen to a tenth-placed finish in Evo-Stik Southern League Division 1 South & West.

The experience of assembling a squad over the course of a summer is new to Ballard, but is one he has relished.

"It's my first off-season as a manager and it is very different to being a player," he said.

"I've been chasing players from last year who we want to keep and chasing players who we'd like to sign for us.

"It's been a little tricky at times but I've enjoyed it and I believe we have the makings of a very good side."

Ballard has offered every member of last season's squad the opportunity to remain at Draycott Engineering Loop Meadow and, with the exception of winger Jack Self, who has opted to join Banbury United in the Premier Division, all have accepted.

Ballard plans to continue playing, as well as managing the team, and believes that with a handful of key additions during the summer, his side could be well placed to push for promotion next season.

He added: "It's a young squad, but they all have another year's experience behind them now.

"The players we'll bring in will add that little bit of extra quality and experience that we've needed.

"We finished the season well and hopefully we'll be able to take that into the next campaign.

"We want promotion this year and if everyone pulls in the same direction there's no reason we can't do it."