CHIPPENHAM Town chairman John Applegate says the departure of Adie Mings leaves a big gap to fill at Hardenhuish Park as they search for a new director of football.

Mings, who spent five years as manager before moving upstairs in the summer, has been headhunted for a regional scouting role by European champions Chelsea as part of their youth development programme.

The 43-year-old, who will continue his full-time job as a PE teacher at Downland School in Devizes, had advised boss Nathan Rudge and oversaw the formation of the development side Chippenham Park and Park Reserves.

“It’s a big blow for us but there’s absolutely no way that we would ever have stood in his way because of everything he’s done for this club,” said Applegate.

“We’ll let the dust settle a bit before we look to get someone else in.

“There are so many things going on at the moment and we feel that we need someone in that role.’’