CHIPPENHAM boss Tommy Saunders is hoping loyal sidekick Colin Bush will reconsider his decision to take over the managerial reins at Screwfix Direct League neighbours Corsham Town.

The most famous double act in Wiltshire non-league football is set to go their separate ways after the final game of the season at Halesowen Town on Saturday, and the popular Bush was given a rousing send-off by home fans after Monday's 4-0 win over Welling.

But Saunders confirmed Bush has informed him of his wish to stand aside at the end of the season, but insists the assistant manager's departure is by no means inevitable.

Said Saunders: "The rumours are that Nobby is going to Corsham, but our season doesn't finish until Saturday and we'll talk on Sunday. At the moment he has decided he is going, but come Sunday he might change his mind.

"He is the most loyal man I have ever met in football and we've worked together for ten years. Of course I don't want him to go, but it isn't right for me to try and talk him into staying every year.

"But, after a night like Monday and the season we've had, if Nobby really wants to go to Corsham then the time is right because he's got no reason to go.

"We've had the best season ever. We have climbed up to a huge standard of football and have a team to be proud of. I include Nobby in that."

Should Bush stick to his guns, he and Saunders will part on good terms.

Said Saunders: "We'll still stay good mates and I'm sure we'll work together again. We'll wait and see. He's not gone until he's gone.

"No-one is forcing him out and nobody wants him to go. And, hand on heart, I think he'll wake up one day this week and change his mind. That's my honest opinion. Why would anyone want to leave Chippenham?"

Saunders and Bush worked wonders on a shoestring budget at Calne Town before being tempted across to Hardenhuish Park by chairman Malcolm Lyus in 1998.

The most successful period in the club's history followed, with the duo guiding the Bluebirds to Wembley in 2000 and successive promotions.

Bush's departure was announced by secretary Chris Blake over the public address system after Monday's game.

Bush said: "I'm not saying anything. We have one more game to go. That game is an important one for the club and, at this present moment, I don't want anything to detract from what Chippenham are doing.

"Right from the beginning I have tried to do things properly, and I'll continue until the very end. I won't be unprofessional.

"Chris (Blake) did pre-empt the situation. It was a nice way to finish and I appreciate the support I was given at the end."

Former Chippenham favourite John Woods is likely to join Corsham as Bush's assistant, and chairman Colin Hudd confirmed he will make an announcement at the weekend.

Meanwhile, the Bluebirds travel to Halesowen on Saturday knowing victory would cement a third place Premier Division finish and relegate last season's Western Division champions.