MINEHEAD are stepping up their search for a new manager following the departures of joint team bosses Gary Hillard and Robert Boyd.

Club chairman Brian Walder has said that the Toolstation Western League Division One strugglers have already received a number of people interested in the vacancy.

Mr Walder told the Gazette: “We are hoping to draw up a shortlist by the end of the weekend and perhaps interview applicants during the next week.

“Whilst we are not ruling out anybody from outside of the West Somerset area, we will need a manager or management team who can attend training sessions in the Minehead area.”

The Blues have put long-serving players Andy Hall and Craig Carr in temporary charge until they make a permanent appointment.

The Bristol-based double act of Hillard and Boyd were drafted in during the summer, but results failed to go their way and Minehead parted company with the pair last week.

Mr Walder added: “We are pleased to report that we have already had some notable interested parties.”

Anyone wanting further details should contact Mr Walder via e-mail at brian.walder@mineheadafc.co.uk or phone him on 07816-923171.