MANAGER Ross Thorpe was delighted to have bagged Alvechurch goal-scoring legend Keith Rostill as his number two for next season.

The popular striker takes up a new role at the club with which he played with some distinction over the years.

But he is also not quite ready to hang up his boots and will still also be available to play for the Lye Meadow outfit.

“Keith was my number one choice and I am delighted he has agreed to become my assistant,” said Thorpe.

“No one knows Alvechurch better he does, he knows the fans, the committee and has a very strong affinity for the club.

“I think it will be a popular choice and he’s very popular with the players as well.

“He’s got a lot of good ideas and I believe he is someone who is naturally going to be a good coach.”

Church have also stepped up their plans for the 2014-15 season in the Midland Alliance by announcing a raft of pre-season matches.

They go to Oadby on July 5, player Alcester Town a week later, travel to Bolehall Swifts on July 19 before home matches against Stratford (July 22) and Sutton Coldfield Town (July 26).

The club are also in the process of organising another friendly clash with July 15 pencilled in.

The manager said: “These will be tough games to make sure we can go into the new season in good shape.

“I am working very hard at the moment to make sure the squad will be strong next season.”

Meanwhile, the club held their end of season awards at the weekend.

Chris Hughes was voted players’ player of the season, while defender Jesse Race was the manager’s man of the previou campaign.

Scott Smith was voted the supporters’ player of the season, while Kyle Morris was young player.

Anthony Fitzmaurice’s stunning 30-yard volley against Coleshill was named the goal of the season.