IAN Ford admits he is "mystified" after being sacked as manager by West Midlands Premier side Ledbury Town.

Ledbury chairman Chris Stephens axed Ford and his assistant Kevin Barry citing a recent run of poor results.

But Ford was staggered by the decision and claims he deserved far better after taking Town to third in the league earlier this season, as well as guiding the club to the last 32 of the FA Vase and League Cup semi-finals.

Ford said: "Two weeks ago, the chairman was saying it was the most successful season in the club's history -- 14 days later and they make this decision. It leaves a bitter taste in the mouth."

Stephens said: "The directors decided that Ian and Kevin had taken the club as far as they could."