MARK Scadding has resigned as Bridport Reserves’ manager, with Richard Middleton taking over the Bees’ second string.

Scadding offered his resignation to chairman Adrian Scadding following a “disagreement” with first-team manager Jamie Manley over the function of the reserves.

Differences in opinion arose through player selection, the Bridport News understands.

Former third-team boss Scadding had preferred to build his own squad, rather than prepare the best reserve players for first-team action, according to several sources at the club.

Chairman Adrian Scadding – who is related to the former reserve manager – played down the development.

He said: “It was just a disagreement over players and who got to play, so Mark decided to step down – that’s about it.

“Mark could see it wasn’t going to work, so he rang me and decided to step down.

“Mark’s stated that he wants to stay on the committee and help them out where he can. He hasn’t fallen out with the club at all.

“We thank Mark for what he’s done at the reserves up to now and wish Richard all the best for the season.”

Scadding had only been in charge of the reserves since the beginning of the summer after previous boss Shaun Annetts stepped down.

Middleton, who is promoted from assistant, has appointed Mark Tozer and Sam Day to his backroom staff.

Bridport Reserves commence their Dorset Premier League season at home to Holt United on Saturday, September 5 (3pm).