SOUTHERN LEAGUE: Mings leaves Bluebirds for Chelsea (From Swindon Advertiser)

SOUTHERN LEAGUE: Mings leaves Bluebirds for Chelsea

6:00am Monday 3rd September 2012 in Sport

ADIE Mings has left his post as Chippenham director of football after being snapped up by Premier League giants Chelsea to become their new chief regional scout for the south west.

The 43-year-old, who spent five years as manager at Hardenhuish Park before moving upstairs, is expected to be working with young players between the age of 12 and 16.

Chippenham director Barry Stephens, speaking during Chippenham’s 4-2 Southern Premier loss at home to Hitchin on Saturday, said: “Adie’s moving on to new pastures and new challenges.

“He’s been around forever, playing for the youth team and the first-team and he’s also had a lengthy playing career, playing at the top of local non-league football, at several clubs.

“After appearing as assistant manager, Adie took over as Chippenham Town manager in the 2006/2007 season, continuing until 2011/2012.

“During this time, he achieved some really good results and he also encouraged local players and people to get involved with the club.

“Adie now leaves his post with our thanks and our best wishes for the future.”

Alan Griffin converted from the penalty spot against Hitchin before Daniel Delderfield, John Frendo, Luke Gregson and Callum Donnelly hit back emphatically.

Substitute Lee Phillips bagged a consolation for the Bluebirds in the second half.

Meanwhile, Cirencester won their first home league match since January as they defeated Didcot 2-0 in Division One South & West.

Ben Wells’ free kick was headed home by Jamie Reid in the 15th minute, with Marco Belloli helpless between the sticks.

Belloli had previously distinguished himself by saving a miscued header from his own defender Jamie Heapy, as well as punching clear Wells’ deliveries under pressure.

James Clark should have equalised when sent clear by a fine ball from Sam Elkins in the 29th minute, but he shot wide of Matt Bath’s goal.

The lead was doubled shortly after the break as Aidan Bennett supplied the cross and former Wootton Bassett striker Sam Collier converted from close range.

Elsewhere, 10-man Hungerford won 2-1 at home to Mangotsfield. Despite Mark Hughes’ early dismissal, Mark Draycott hit a brace including a penalty to make sure of victory.