FORMER Worcester City boss Andy Preece has been appointed manager of Vanarama National League strugglers Southport.

The ex-Crystal Palace striker’s arrival at the Merseyrail Community Stadium comes after Steve Burr was axed late last month.

But Burr, who was in charge at Southport for four months, has taken over the reins at relegation-threatened National League North side Stalybridge Celtic until the end of next season.

Evesham-born Preece was in the hotseat at Worcester between 2005 and 2007 before managing Northwich Victoria and Welsh Premier League outfit Airbus UK Broughton.

The 49-year-old said: “I’ve got a fantastic opportunity at a well-run club that I have known for many years.

“My first match in charge of Worcester was against Southport. I am really looking forward to the challenge.

“I’ve been in this situation before taking over a club and I expect to succeed.

“Yes, lots of hard work ahead on and off the pitch with fifteen games to go. It is a big job.

“I have no fears and expect us to be moving forward.

“It is a great opportunity to be the manager of Southport.”