STAR midfielder Ryan Dovell will not return to Bridport, assistant-manager Kevin Leigh has confirmed.

Popular Bees’ ace Dovell rejoined the club last summer to work as assistant-boss under Rich Robson, who resigned following a run of one win in 10 games.

Due to work commitments, Dovell took a one-month break from Bees’ duty in December to play for Weymouth-based Balti Sports, signing on dual registration.

However, Leigh admitted Dovell will not add to his season’s tally of 16 Bridport appearances and three goals.

He said: “(Dovell) said he’s enjoyed playing for Balti and hasn’t really missed playing for Bridport, so he thinks it’s probably the right time for him to leave – we’ve wished him well.

“He’s done very well for us and I was with Trevor Senior down there when I first met (Dovell).

“Obviously he used to be a centre-forward but has moved back. Hopefully he’ll enjoy his time with Balti Sports.”