BRIDPORT assistant Jim Lukosius has confirmed his exit from the Bees, the Bridport News can reveal.

Lukosius served as number two under boss Edgar Marcu but has now committed to a Bournemouth Academy role.

Combining both positions proved difficult for the former Chelsea foundation coach and Yeovil Town Under-18s coach and he has decided to step away from the Bees.

Lukosius was not present for Tuesday’s 5-0 loss to Cullumpton and the club are yet to announce his departure.

READ MORE: Bridport 0-5 Cullompton Rangers - match report

However, he did not rule out a return to St Mary’s Field if his schedule at the Cherries allowed.

He told the Bridport News: “I’ve run out of time and Bournemouth Academy is going to progress my career a lot more.

“I think Bridport is a great club and it was a really hard decision to step away. I’ve loved working there and the boys are absolutely fantastic.

“If things change in my schedule, I’d go back. I was struggling big time to be able to make training and games.

“The club’s been brilliant, especially with Dougal (Adrian Scadding, chairman). They’ve been brilliant in supporting us.

“I’ve had a plan to be working at Bournemouth for quite a long time, since I left Chelsea.

“Now it’s come through. They’ve given me more work than I thought was possible, so I’ve had to take it on and it’s paid quite well.”

Elaborating on his role at Bournemouth, he added: “I’m with the foundation phase coaching under-nines and twelves.

“In a few months I’ll be working with older age groups as well and hoping to get the (UEFA) A licence.”