MANAGERLESS Wimborne Town have lodged an official approach for Bashley boss Steve Riley, the Echo can reveal.

Recreation Ground chairman Richard Millbery today confirmed that Magpies had formally declared their interest in the highly-rated non-league manager.

Wimborne have been searching for a successor to Alex Browne since he resigned from his role at Cuthbury last week.

The Echo reported on Friday that Riley was understood to be on Wimborne’s wish-list, with Magpies vice-chairman Paul Miller admitting: “You’d have to be interested in Steve Riley because of his credentials, but whether he is available is another matter.”

But Wimborne could hold talks with Riley after Millbery revealed news of the approach.

The Bash chief said: “I believe there is an official approach in and we can’t stop Steve talking to them.

“It is up to Steve but we would not want to lose him. He has been a great manager for us.”

Riley would certainly fit the bill as Wimborne look to adjust to life in the Southern League.

Magpies have endured a tough debut campaign in the Southern League and Riley has already proven himself at step four level, having led Bashley to the Division One South & West title in 2007.

He has also enjoyed relative success in the Premier Division on a limited budget.

Other names to be linked with the vacancy include Poole Town coach Steve Cuss, Christchurch manager Graham Kemp and Dorchester Town assistant boss Phil Simkin.

FOR MORE ON THIS STORY AND OTHER NON-LEAGUE NEWS, SEE TOMORROW’S ECHO.