MANAGER Carl Heeley and assistant Matt Gardiner have both committed their futures to Worcester City by signing new rolling long-term contracts.

The news will be a huge boost to the Blue and Whites as they continue their exile away from the city at Kidderminster Harriers' Aggborough ground.

Heeley has been in charge since January 2010, when he took over on a caretaker basis from Richard Dryden before being appointed permanently.

Gardiner joined the club in May 2011 following a spell as manager at Redditch United.

During their tenure, they have managed to build competitive squads despite tough financial restraints, which were compounded with the club's departure from St George's Lane.

City have finished seventh, 15th and 15th in their last three Conference North campaigns and are currently 13th heading into tomorrow night's home match against Boston United.

A club statement said: "The challenges faced by the club since it left St George’s Lane are well documented and last season was a huge step into the unknown.

"Carl and Matt were instrumental in ensuring that a competitive playing squad was assembled, often in difficult circumstances.

"Their continued commitment and support has ensured that the club continues to move forward on the pitch."

It continued: "Obviously, a successful team is an essential part of the club’s future. As the club continues to move forward, we are delighted that Carl and Matt share the vision to continue to develop the club’s community profile and bring the club back to the City of Worcester as soon as possible.

"It goes without saying that the club still faces a number of challenges but we are confident that with a first class management team sharing the journey with the board of directors and supporters' trust, there is every reason to be optimistic about the future."