FORMER Dorchester Town goalkeeper admitted to feeling a ‘bit sad’ with his departure from the Avenue Stadium to take up a coaching role at Exeter.

The move, announced on Thursday, sees him become a goalkeeping coach for the Grecians’ who are currently in Sky Bet League Two.

Weale said: “I loved it, it is a really great club full of great people. I am a bit sad in terms of leaving because it is a really good time at Dorchester in terms of the 3G pitch and the manager.

He reserved special praise for the Magpies’ boss Steve Thompson.

Weale said: “He has got a fantastic attitude in terms of what he wants to achieve and he is a great guy as well.

Referring to Exeter, Weale said: “It was an opportunity I just could not turn down.

“If it was any other club I do not think I would have gone for it. It was a really good time at Dorchester, I loved it. I thought the fans were great and we had a really great set of lads and I really strongly believe that with the right players, Dorchester could achieve good things this season.

“I know it is difficult in terms of the budget and other clubs but the league is wide open this season.

“There is not really anyone apart from Weymouth in terms of the standout teams that you look at on paper so really it is quite open this season the Southern League.”

Weale also confirmed that he has not retired from playing, but admits that it is not where his focus is anymore.

Weale said: “I can still do a job in terms of being at that level.

“I will be registered as a player but on a day-to-day basis I will be responsible for the goalkeepers and it is not about me anymore and I am not concerned about overly playing loads of games.”

He also revealed that he turned down one club coaching offer mid-way through last season while playing at Dorchester and Weale hopes to return to the Avenue Stadium to watch one of the pre-season friendlies.