CHERRIES boss Eddie Howe said he had “mixed feelings” over Chris Hargreaves’s appointment as manager of Torquay United.

Hargreaves, who had been first-team coach under Howe at Dean Court, is tomorrow due to be unveiled at a press conference at Plainmoor.

The Gulls announced his appointment today after Cherries had given them permission to speak to Hargreaves following Alan Knill’s sacking last week.

Promoted to Howe’s backroom staff in the summer, Hargreaves captained Torquay when they returned to the Football League in 2009 and netted in their Conference play-off final win over Cambridge at Wembley.

Howe, who confirmed Cherries had not asked for any compensation, told the Daily Echo: “We are sad to see him go. He was a very valued member of staff and did a really good job for the club in the time he was here. He is a hard worker, dedicated and with good ideas. He was very hands-on with the squad so we will miss him.

“But we are also pleased for Chris and his family that he has been given this opportunity to cut his teeth in management.

“It is something he had always wanted to do and we certainly wish him all the best.”