HAMPSHIRE are looking for a new Middleton Cup boss after John Plomer's decision to quit after three years in the county hot-seat.

The Bournemouth-based boss reached two quarter-finals but the prize of a place at Worthing eluded him and now he feels it is time to give someone else the opportunity to try and bring bowling's inter-county championship trophy to Hampshire.

Plomer said: "I have thoroughly enjoyed my time as county team manager and, though several people wanted me to stay, I feel I have gone as far as I could with the present squad.

"I have brought in seven or eight new bowlers and changed several of the skips getting rid of some of the dead wood. Some of the decisions I took were not popular but they were done for the good of the county and the fact that we reached two quarter-finals I think justified my selections.

"Whoever takes on the job I shall give them every support and I shall continue to give Hampshire all my support as well."

The highs and lows of his reign were encapsulated into his final two matches during July. The zenith was that dramatic last-wood victory away to Oxfordshire which clinched a quarter-final spot but the nadir was the quarter-final itself when Hampshire were outgunned by a vibrant Surrey team at Wootton Bassett three weeks later.

Although Plomer says that defeat did not affect his decision, had Hampshire qualified for the semi-finals at Worthing he could well have been persuaded to stay at the helm for another three-year term.

His decision was also influenced by the fact that he is to undergo a hand operation shortly and he is to be vice-president at his club, Bournemouth, next year and almost certainly their captain as well.

County secretary Barry Melsom said: "John changed the side for the better and the players themselves felt the team spirit improved. From what he said to me earlier in the season I am not surprised by his decision though I am disappointed."

Hampshire will advertise the post and having drawn up a short-list they will appoint a panel to interview candidates with the intention of announcing the new manager by the end of January.