ANDY Mason today spoke of his 'sadness' following the sacking of Terras director of football Fred Davies.

Former Shrewsbury Town chief Davies was relieved of his duties after informing club officials he would only be available on matchdays for the forseeable future - the Telford-based ex-Norwich City goalkeeper wanted to spend more time at home with his sick wife.

But player-boss Mason also said he was now looking forward to working with new man Des Bulpin.

"I'm very disappointed that Fred has been dismissed. It was a real a real shock because I thought things were going well and we're up there in a great position to challenge for promotion. Since returning to the club about this time last year, Fred has done a wonderful job and I hope the fantastic contribution he's made is never under valued or forgotten.

"It's sad and unfortunate that his personal circumstances have forced him to leave, but I guess the decision has been made for a reason and I know it wasn't easy for anyone."

He added: "But you have to accept these sort of things in life. Des has now been appointed and I'm delighted to welcome him to the club. I spent some time with him yesterday and found him to be a really nice fellow and I'm really looking forward to working with him.

"It's going to be a little bit strange for a while and there will obviously be a bit of a settling in period. Des brings with him an impressive CV, but it's going to take him a while to get to know the in and outs of both Weymouth and the Dr Martens Premier Division in general.

"But I'm sure he's going to be a great asset. In many ways he's another Fred in as much as he's got a wealth of experience in the professional game and a very big contact book.

"Ultimately we all want the same thing which is a place in the Conference."