GEOFF Warner admitted he was left "bitterly disappointed" following his departure from Bracknell Town, writes Dave Wright.

"I was stunned, as I wasn't expecting it," he said. "I had a good record there, including 16 successive wins, league runners-up two years running and semi-finals in the league cup. It was just unfortunate we didn't play well in the play-off final against Cheshunt."

Warner, 66, said it was the first time in 30 years he had been sacked during a career which included 25 years attached to professional clubs, including Reading, Crystal Palace and Aldershot.

While disappointing to lose him, Ascot United manager Jamie Tompkins has praised former head coach, Aaron Steadman, following his decision to join Bracknell.

“I’d like to thank Aaron for his time at the club in what has been a successful season," said Tompkins.

"Aaron’s contribution, commitment and support have been a great asset, along with his drive and determination to progress and succeed, which we have done so having finished in seventh place in the Uhlsport Hellenic League Premier Division, winning the League Cup and reaching the semi-finals of the Floodlit Cup this season."

He continued: "I am delighted to announce Dan Masters will step up to the position of assistant manager, and both he and I will continue to be supported by Bjorn Dunkley, Jamie Ashdown and Alexia Sawdon."

The Yellamen are also pleased Tompkins will be staying with their director of football, Neil Richards, commenting: “This is a massive boost for the club in a period of transition; Jamie has done a great job and is well respected at this level of football. To retain his services demonstrates our ambition to continue to grow both on and off the pitch in the future."

Tompkins added: "Having received offers from elsewhere, this is the club I am committed to and want to be at. With the new 3G pitch and other projects coming to fruition, the club is entering an exciting period and I am full of confidence our extremely talented squad will continue to build on the progressive and successful season we have just enjoyed.

"I’d also like to thank our fans, sponsors and volunteers for the excellent support they continuously show to the club and we look forward to seeing them again for the 2019-20 season.”