STUART Watkiss wants the focus back on Kidderminster Harriers' fight for a Football League return following the completion of the club's long drawn-out takeover.

Aggborough Holdings assumed control of Harriers after contracts were signed and sealed.

Former owner Lionel Newton relinquished his majority shareholding for £1 and wrote off his substantial loan to the Conference club, on the condition that Aggborough Holdings invests in Kidderminster.

The group -- consisting of Barry Norgrove, Neil Savery and Bermuda-based businessman Gordon Howard -- have agreed to plough in £300,000 straight away with two further £50,000 payments at the end of this season and next.

With the takeover finally re-solved, manager Watkiss is hopeful it will spell an end to the negative vibes at the club.

Watkiss said: "I think everybody from the coaching staff to the directors are pleased that it's completed and I think it needed to be sorted soon in order for the club to move forward in all areas.

"Hopefully, now all the talk surrounding Kidderminster Harriers can be football again. I think now is the time to look forward with optimism."

Consortium leader Norgrove gave his full support to Watkiss and is keen to focus on the club's bid for promotion.

"Thankfully everything is sorted and we can look towards a fresh start," said Norgrove.

"Stuart hasn't had the best of starts in building his new team. But hopefully we can get him started with a strong team and start worrying about football again."

Harriers tasted success in their second pre-season friendly last night, romping to a 4-2 triumph at neighbours Bromsgrove Rovers. A brace by new-boy Laurie Wilson, sandwiching strikes from Iyseden Christie and Michael Blackwood, gave Kidderminster a 4-0 half-time lead at the Victoria Ground.

Rovers responded through Aaron Blakemore and Scott Hadland.

Meanwhile, Harriers have completed the signing of long-term target, 25-year-old midfielder Gareth Sheldon from Conference rivals Exeter City.