MARK COLLIER has been handed the managerial position at Swindon Supermarine on a permanent basis.

The 44-year-old had been acting as caretaker following the resignation of Tommy Saunders last week.

Victory in his first game against Stourport on Saturday and a positive response from the players to the stand-in boss prompted Steve Moore and his fellow Marine directors to offer Collier a full-time deal.

Collier, who enjoyed a distinguished non-league playing career with Chippenham Town and Swindon Athletic among others, said: "It's a bit of a challenge for me.

"As I've already said, quite a few experienced managers have come here and failed. But I've spoken to some of the players and they are more than happy for me to come in.

"My aim now is to rebuild the players confidence and look forward to building a competitive side for next season.

"The fact that the committee have given me the job now rather than at the end of the season shows they have no doubt in my ability to do the job, which gives me every confidence."

Collier first arrived at Hunts Copse as a coach towards the end of Ray Baverstock's stint in charge and assisted Saunders during his brief spell.

He will continue to work as a centre of excellence coach at Swindon Town.

Marine press officer Leigh Moore said: "We are delighted that Mark has accepted the job of first team manger.

"He has made a great impression on the club since joining under Ray Baverstock and understands the challenges facing the club over the coming years."

Cirencester's Dr Martens Western Division challenge was bolstered by a 2-1 win over Taunton at the Corinium Stadium last night.

Mark Richards opened the scoring for Ciren, only for Adrian Foster to level.

But Ben Fitch netted a crucial winner with little more than 10 minutes left.

Wootton Bassett suffered another 1-0 Hellenic Premier defeat on the road, losing by a solitary goal at North Leigh.

Corsham cruised to a 3-0 win over Weston St Johns in the Screwfix First Division. Alan Griffin hit two with fellow front man Dave Kilmurray also on target.

Highworth face a trek to Pegasus Juniors in the Hellenic Premier Division tonight while in the Screwfix First Division, Calne travel to Wiltshire rivals Westbury.