Didcot Town veteran Jamie Heapy signs for Oxford City
Last updated on .From the section National League
Didcot Town captain Jamie Heapy has left the club after 16 years to join Oxfordshire rivals Oxford City.
Heapy, who made more than 720 appearances for the Railwaymen, announced the move following Didcot's defeat at Halesowen at Tuesday.
He told BBC Radio Oxford: "I just felt that this opportunity to go to Oxford City was too good to turn down.
"It will be a fresh challenge and a fresh start hopefully."
The defender, who captained the side to promotion via the play-offs in 2009, added the decision to leave the club he played for as a teenager was not an easy one but he is looking forward to starting at his new club.
"A lot of thought and sleepless nights and consideration has obviously gone into it," he said.
"(City) have got some very good players in their squad. Ex-professionals, players that can play in various positions.
"I just want to give it all I've got and force my way into the side."
Didcot chairman John Bailey told the club website: "Obviously we didn't want to lose him, Jamie will go down as one of the most successful and loyal players the football club have ever had.
"But at the same time you have to respect his desire to test himself at a better standard; so he goes with our blessing and we wish him the best of luck."
Didcot Town are currently lying fourth from bottom in Southern Division South and West with just six points in 10 games but Heapy is optimistic the team's form will improve following the appointment of new manager Dave Mudge.
He said: "With Dave Mudge in charge I think things will be moving in the right direction. They'll be picking up wins very shortly and moving up that table."
