BANBURY United boss Billy Jeffery has committed himself to the club for the 2009-10 season.

Banbury are still awaiting their fate after finishing in the BGB Southern League Premier Division relegation zone, with a number of clubs from around the non-league pyramid facing winding-up orders or relegation due to ground grading issues.

Banbury United board member Nigel Porter said: “We are delighted to secure Billy’s services as first team manager for next season.

“We believe we have got the club into a better position off the field than for many years.

“We have a very committed board and have a very tight rein on our finances.

“Billy is another piece of the jigsaw, and I think things are looking brighter now than they have for a long time.”

Jeffrey, who will be joined by assistant boss Kenny Mist, said: “I want to take this club forward and work together with the players, board and supporters.

“I know how much hard work people at the club did at the end of last season in an effort to keep the club up.

“The reception I received from the fans and supporters during the final few games of the season had a major bearing on my decision to stay.

“We have some very good young players here at Banbury, and I also hope to add to the squad, get the ball down, and play good football next season.”

The Football Association are expected to announce league constitutions next Tuesday, at which time, Banbury will finally know which division they will be playing in.

l STRIKER Ben Thompson won three awards at Witney United’s annual presentation night.

Thompson, who won the FTL Hellenic League Golden Boot Award, added the website player, the players’ player and the supporters’ player accolades.

His dominance of first-team awards was only broken by defender Lee Henderson, who scooped the manager’s player honour.

OTHER AWARDS Reserve team players’ player: Will Brid-gewater. Reserve team manager’s player: Sam McNally.

Under 18 players’ player: Sam McNally. Under 18 most improved player: Will Bridgewater. Under 18 manager’s player: Jack Cummings. Clubman of the year: Bob Haydon.

l LAUNTON Sports are holding their annual general meeting on Sunday, May 31, starting at 1pm.

Kevin Poole, who masterminded their escape from relegation, has agreed to stay on as manager for the new season, where they will play in Division 1 West, having been switched from the East section.