A "DISAPPOINTED" Rich Robson insisted he did the "best job possible" at Bridport after resigning from the Bees' hotseat.

Robson departed St Mary's Field yesterday evening after a meeting of the club's committee, with assistant-manager Ryan Dovell following.

It is understood Bridport have already appointed a new manager and number two, with an announcement due on Monday.

Meanwhile, the new pair are set to oversee team duties during tomorrow's Toolstation Western League Premier Division contest at Chipping Sodbury Town (3pm).

Goalkeeper Scott Wells-Burr and midfielder Tom Richardson will be tasked with picking the starting XI.

Dovell's playing future is yet to be decided, but Robson felt the outgoing duo had not been given time to show their managerial "calibre" after eight losses in 10 games.

In a statement, Robson said: "I am very disappointed to be leaving my role at Bridport FC and do so with a heavy heart.

"I would like to start by thanking the fans for their patience and the playing staff for their efforts. We believe we did the best job possible with circumstances considered.

"We inherited no players, a decreased budget and started from nothing. I believe we have left Bridport with a strong forward and midfield line, and wish the new management all the best in solving the defensive issues of the team."

After signing a number of talented young players to address the almost entire exit of previous boss Adam Fricker's squad, Robson insisted the Bees had been moving in the "right direction".

He said: "Ryan and I felt we had brought in a player, although controversial, to provide the right experience to help us solve this issue, but due to reasons beyond our control, we were unable to use them.

"We felt that this in itself prevented the team from results although performances were improving. Without these successes, it makes the task of recruitment even harder.

"We have fought from the very start to achieve what we set out to achieve. We gave more playing time to local players, we tried to bring in good young players to give them a chance, and believed we were moving in the right direction to achieve our end season finishing position target.

"Six weeks into a season is far too short a time to see the calibre of a management team.

"That being said, the committee have a desire to see more experienced players at the club.

"I felt I was not the best man to deliver this in the geographical area in which Bridport resides.

"It is only fair that Bridport have the chance to achieve their desire and would like to wish the chairman, the committee, the players and most importantly the fans all the best for the future."