Thomas replaces Hillier at Oldland

Toolstation Division One side Oldland Abbotonians have appointed Spencer Thomas as manager following the shock departure of former Bristol Rovers player David Hillier a couple of weeks ago.

Hillier led Oldland to a seventh-placed finish in the league and in the final game of the season they won the Les Phillips Cup with a victory over Premier Division Calne Town.

Although Hillier remains with the club, he decided to stand down as manager due to his work commitments and wanting to spend time with his young family.

Thomas had a spell as manager of Hanham Athletic and took them into the Gloucestershire County League where they finished as runners-up in their first season.

He then joined Mangotsfield United as assistant to Paul Milsom, but left midway through last season.

Thomas will be assisted by Martin Cutler, who was Hillier's number two, and is looking to sign a number of players.

The new manager said: "My aim is to improve on their seventh-placed finish last season."