CHRISTCHURCH have confirmed the return of former joint-manager Wayne Smith as their new boss.

The Hurn Bridge outfit had been without a manager since Cal Brooks handed in his resignation last week, citing a difference in plans for the upcoming season.

Brooks had managed to keep Priory in the Wessex Premier, with the side finishing 19th, one place above the drop zone.

Smith had previously worked alongside Ollie Cherrett for two and half years at Christchurch, helping Priory back to the Wessex Premier League.

When the duo stepped down from Christchurch following the club's decision not to apply for promotion to the Southern League, they both joined Shaftesbury.

In a club statement on social media, Christchurch stated: "We are pleased to announce after a Club Committee meeting that Wayne Smith will become our First Team manager.

"Wayne was integral during one of the most successful periods in our Club's history, and we hope with him at the helm we can rebuild and enjoy continued success again."