MARTIN Harrison today said Weymouth chairman Ian Ridley had been thinking of quitting 'for some time'. Ridley is expected to formally announce his resignation as Terras supremo after today's Nationwide South home game with Bishop's Stortford.

But chief executive Harrison, who took over the newly-created role after making a major investment in Weymouth over the summer, revealed Ridley's likely departure has been on the cards for a while.

The Hollybush Hotels owner said: "Having spoken to Ian, I knew he was thinking of resigning but at this stage I haven't had an official resignation from him.

"Until I have the confirmation he intends to resign as chairman in writing, I do not want to say too much.

"What I will say is that I know Ian wants to go with dignity and respect and I do not want to do anything that will jeopardise that."

Harrison added that he was confident player-boss Steve Claridge would turn around Weymouth's poor start to the season in which they have won just one of six games.

His comments come as the Terras manager, who has just under four years to run on his current contract with the club, stressed he would not follow Ridley out of the Wessex Stadium exit door.

Harrison said: "Steve has got a long contract with us. It is a great deal on a personal level for him and he has done a good job while he has been here.

"We all agree we have had a disappointing start to the season but we have got the players to turn things around.

"I have a great deal of respect for what he has achieved in the game and he's more than capable of getting us back on track."