FORMER Cherry Marvin Bartley has taken his first steps into management, being appointed boss at Scottish League One outfit Queen of the South.

Bartley, who came from non-league before making over 100 appearances for Cherries, had been assistant manager at Scottish Premiership side Livingston,  the club where he ended his playing career at the end of the last campaign.

Queen of the South are currently eighth in the third tier, outside the playoffs following relegation last term.

Bartley told  the club’s website: “I’m delighted to have been given the opportunity to become Queens manager. 

“I have enjoyed being assistant at Livingston and owe David Martindale a huge debt of gratitude for the time taken to help mould my management style, but I feel the time is now right for me to make a step up and be my own boss.

“My experience at Livingston, coupled with the knowledge accrued playing under Eddie Howe and Sean Dyche puts me in good stead to make the most of the opportunity at Queens, which is a great club with a lot of potential. 

“They have a strong youthful squad and with a few additions I’m confident we can climb the table.  I am looking forward to the challenge and can’t wait to get started”.