WELLINGTON go into their opening match at Bovey Tracey in the Premier Division of the Jewson Western League on Saturday, July 25, having had the worst possible build-up to the new season.

They were left without a manager last week after Tornado Bello quit after being in charge for only two pre-season games - both of which were lost (5-0 away to Elmore and 3-0 at Bishops Lydeard).

Wellington’s chairman Mike Hall will be in charge at Bovey Tracey while the club advertise for a new manager.

It is known that a number of senior players have left the club in the past couple of weeks.

Bello was appointed to replace Richard Cherry who left at the end of last season and has since joined the management team at Brixham AFC.

Bello said at the time of his departure: "I'm a football player first and foremost, and I believe I'm better suited to being an assistant manager at this stage of my journey."

Wellington could not be facing a tougher start to the season. Bovey Tracey lost only two matches in winning the title in the South West Peninsula League East Section last season, conceding barely a goal a game.

Saturday's fixtures, Premier Division: Bovey Tracey v Wellington, Brislington v Saltash United, Brixham AFC v Bridgwater United, Clevedon Town v Newquay, Liskeard Athletic v Shepton Mallet, Portishead Town v Ivybridge Town, St Blazey v Wells, City, Tavistock Association v Buckland Athletic, Torpoint Athletic v Street.

Wellington are also due play another game away to Shepton Mallet in the league on Tuesday, July 28.

Wellington Reserves will again be playing in the Devon & Exeter Football League while Wellington A remain in the Taunton Saturday League.

Wellington Reds will also be back playing again after missing a season and have been placed in Division Two of the Taunton Saturday League.