THE LAST of the original Hereford FC players who was part of the phoenix club's first league game has left after signing a professional contract with Exeter City.

Jimmy Oates captained the side during last season's title winning side but has signed a full-time contract with the League Two club following a three-week trial.

The 27-year-old Australian defender studied at Hartpury College where he worked with City manager Matt Taylor.

"I really like the feel of Exeter and being from Sydney and the coast coming here I'm able to the beach after training which is a massive thing for me," said Oates.

"Matt Taylor worked with me at Hartbury College and contacted me in the off season, it was just an opportunity I couldn't really pass up. I was away on holiday at the time and had agreed to come back to Hereford.

"It all happened very quickly and I had to make a call. Coming over here (from Australia) it was always a dream of mine to play full-time but I didn't know how realistic it was with injury trouble.

"After a couple of good years at Hereford I started to think that maybe I could get a contract. The quality is very high at Exeter and the standard every day in training is noticeable as they are sharper and fitter in general.

Oates was playing part-time for Hereford while also working at a gym in Cheltenham.

"While I was at Hereford I was always working as well so that is another big thing not having to work," he added.

"That was a big thing in my head during the trial period that if I came through football would be my full-time job which would be amazing."

Oates looks back fondly at his time at Hereford FC and said that he has enjoyed some unforgettable moments.

He added: "I have made such good mates and it is such a family feeling there over the last three years.

"All the support from the fans has been incredible and you can really tell that they love the club. Getting a third league title in a row is something I will never forget, that and Wembley.

"At the start I thought we could do two for sure but I wasn't sure about a third."

Speaking to the club's official website earlier this week Hereford manager Pete Beadle said that he was delighted for Oates.

He added: "Jimmy was the last of the players who were with us right from day one, so it is sad to see that chapter in the clubs history close.

“I’m proud that we took Jimmy on right at the start, back in the Midland Football League, it has been a joy to watch him progress with us to a point where he has been able to make the step up to the Football League.

“I’d like to thank him for his efforts over the past three seasons, it’s been a tremendous journey and I am pleased to have been through so many great times both on and off the pitch with him.

“I’m proud that we have helped to make his dreams of becoming a professional footballer come true.”

Hereford chairman Ken Kinnersley added: “Sadly, the realism of football at this level has now hit hard and I am extremely disappointed and saddened that he is leaving.

"That said, Hereford FC would never want to stand in his way and are all fully behind him as he follows his dreams to play in the Football League."