Hereford United extend manager Jamie Pitman's contract

Pitman first joined the Bulls from Swindon Town in 1996

Hereford have rewarded manager Jamie Pitman with a new two-year contract, keeping him at the club until 2013.

The former Bulls physio originally took charge as caretaker boss in October following the sacking of Simon Davey.

Pitman, 35, has since guided Hereford from the bottom of League Two to 18th place, six points above the drop zone.

"I am thrilled to be given the chance to lead the Bulls into the future as this club is in my blood," he told BBC Hereford & Worcester.

"We have Shrewsbury on Saturday and I am looking forward to welcoming [former Bulls boss] Graham Turner back to Edgar Street as I learnt so much playing and working for him."

Former Bulls midfielder Pitman, along with assistant Russel Hoult, also led Hereford to the fourth round of the FA Cup before they were knocked out by Sheffield Wednesday.

Hereford chairman David Keyte added: "The results of Jamie's hard work are there for all to see.

"Thanks to him and his team we have had a great turnaround in fortunes this year and he richly deserves the chance to lead us forward."