WEYMOUTH manager Bobby Wilkinson admitted to feeling “absolutely devastated” after the departure of defender David Sesay.

The 25-year-old has joined full-time Eastbourne Borough, with Sports understood to have more than trebled the left-back’s wages while offering him accommodation away from his London base.

Sesay’s move to a National League South rival adds further pain to an already “emotional” move for the ex-Wealdstone star.

He played 35 times for Weymouth, scoring twice, and formed a close bond with manager Bobby Wilkinson, who tempted the defender back to the Terras after he rejected a professional deal in Ireland last summer.

Speaking to Echosport, Wilkinson said: “I’ll be very honest, we both got emotional. We gave each other a massive cuddle before he left.

READ MORE: David Sesay heads for Weymouth exit

“He came into training to hand all his gear back. I couldn’t compete with the finances, with Eastbourne.

“We didn’t have him on a contract, we couldn’t afford to put him on a contract.

“I’m absolutely devastated to lose him. We’re very, very tight because of what we’ve done together.

“Remember, he deserves credit, he’s done the ‘Great Escape’ and then re-signed for us when he lives in London.

“He will be sorely missed, we did not want to lose him, but I understand his decision. He’s got offered a lot more money to go and play, and it’s full-time football plus accommodation.

“I have to wish him all the best. He’s done me proud.”

Weymouth host second-placed Aveley, a side promoted from Step 3 in the summer, on Saturday (3pm).