Meredith earns permanent post

The former reserve team boss - installed as caretaker manager in April for the last three fixtures of the season following the departure of Alex Sykes - was handed the post on a permanent basis on Monday.

Meridith, pictured, stepped down as second string boss last season for personal reasons but was still involved at Meadowbank and is the father of Woods stalwart Liam and his brother Ryan. In a statement announcing his appointment, officials at the EVO-STIK League Southern Division One South & West club also confirmed Will Morford as first team coach.

A Woods spokesman said: "Shortwood United are delighted to announce that Paul Meredith will be Shortwood’s first team manager for the upcoming season 2017-18 and that Will Morford will be coach.

"Paul needs no introduction to the Shortwood supporters as he guided the reserve team through a highly successful period that saw them achieve two successive promotions from the Northern Senior League to Hellenic Division One West before stepping down with current reserve team boss Nick Ackland taking charge.

"The relationship between Paul and Nick has always been good and the strengthening of the relationship between the two sides can only be a good thing as the club moves forward. The continuation of Will Morford as coach is also a major boost for the club as Will brings a wealth of experience and knowledge and he showed last season what an asset he is to the club."

Former Bishop's Cleeve boss and England Futsal international Sykes had been the EVO-STIK League Southern Division One South & West club's sole manager since the start of the 2016-17 season after originally being appointed four years ago in 2013 as joint manager alongside John Evans.

After their ninth-placed finish to their fifth season in the Southern League, Shortwood have also announced their first pre-season friendly for next season, a trip to Bradford Town on Wednesday 26 July.

Follow the EVO-STIK League Southern on Twitter at @SouthernLeague1