Dane Bunney takes over at Washbrook Meadow

OTTERY ST Mary FC has an ambitious new manager at the helm.

Dane Bunney, who has been described as ‘the Peninsula league’s most promising up-and-coming manager’, has taken over at the club and has big plans for the future.

He comes from Millbrook FC, where he was highly regarded, having left at the end of the season when the club withdrew from the Peninsula League due to financial constraints due to the distances involved in travelling to games.

At that time, he issued a statement, saying: “I have become very fond of Millbrook Football Club and have dedicated a large part of my life managing the team. I wish the club and those who work very hard for the cause every success for the future.”

He added: “However, it is my personal opinion that this will be massive step backwards (rejoining the East Cornwall League) and the club are aware of my opinion. I am a young, ambitious manager and do not see any benefit to me, personally, in remaining at a club that is taking such a large step backwards.

“I am thankful to the club for giving me my first opportunity in management and I am determined to make use of what I have learnt in the two years in charge of the side.”

Speaking to the Herald about his post at Ottery, he said: “They have a good set up at Ottery. I have a three year plan and I am not using the club as a short- term stepping stone.

“I intend to see it through. The committee are forward thinking and so am I. Last year the club conceded 109 goals so, obviously, things need to change. I will be bringing in some players, but I am keen to involve good local players as it is important that the club retains its identity. I need to strike the right balance. The team will be picked on ability, not where they live. I have several former Ottery players keen to come back for a second spell.

“Our next pre-season training session is on Tuesday night 7-9.30pm when we will have a few different faces from last week’s session that I want to take a look at, but I hope to be able to finalise the squad over the weekend of July 17-18 at the Sidbury tournament.

Bunney, who hails from Plymouth and played at Launceston, Plymstock and Ivybridge, is not yet 29. He will be assisted by Andy Johnson, who he brings with him, and also has local help, Ken Ramsden working on pre-season fitness. He is also keen to boost the profile of the club within the community and is keen to see match attendances rise.

For any information regarding playing, friendlies and training contact Dane on 07903300738. Players old and new are welcome to training.