CHIPPENHAM physiotherapist Paul Watts revealed the reason why he has reversed his decision to quit Hardenhuish in the summer his wife Cynthia persuaded him to stay.

Watts, who took over as Bluebirds physio in 2002 from John Lock, informed the club of his decision to step down in October.

But after a recent conversation with his wife he felt he could not give up the job he loves, and told manager Steve White he wanted to stay before their league defeat to Aylesbury on Saturday.

The 46-year-old had wanted to quit to spend more time at home.

But as the departure date drew nearer he realised he could not walk away from Hardenhuish.

He said: "I felt comfortable with the decision but as the weeks went ticking by I was thinking to myself, 'crikey I'm going to miss this'.

"I did not even say anything to Cynthia but she picked up the vibe and told me I should stay, and fair play to her.

"I do have a few DIY jobs that I have to rush and get done in the summer now though."

The service support manager, who used to play for Biddestone in the Wiltshire League, first started as a physio in 1998 when he worked with Graham Learmouth at Calne Town.

He then moved to Corsham Town and worked under the current Devizes management duo of Mark Godley and John Freegard before applying to take over from Lock at Hardenhuish.

"I have always been interested in physiotherapy and did a course on sports therapy and massage. I jumped at the chance to work at Hardenhuish as I am Chippenham born and bred.

"I have always wanted to be involved in football but could never see myself running a team. This way I can keep involved with the club I have always loved."

Watts has seen a huge number of injuries during his three seasons but said the one that most sticks in his mind was when former keeper James Bittner was struck with a hockey ball.

"It came flying over from the leisure centre next door and hit him on the shoulder and he had to be substituted after just two minutes.

"I also remember my first game as the physio when we were away to Dover Athletic and Martin Paul scored a late winner."