Alun Rossiter was chasing Swindon's first championship since 1967

Alun Rossiter has left his role as team manager at Swindon Robins to take up a managerial post at Elite League rivals Coventry Bees.

Rossiter spent six years with Swindon as team manager, having previously ridden for the club.

But an offer of a full-time position at Coventry proved too good to turn down.

"This is is an exciting opportunity for me," said Rossiter. "The role will allow me to provide a better future for my young family."

During his managerial reign at Swindon, Rossiter led Swindon to two Elite League Pairs Championships, victory in the 2008 Elite Shield and took the club to the end-of-season play-offs four times in a row.

Swindon co-owner Gary Patchett said: "When Alun rang me he said it was the hardest call he had ever had to make.

I've thoroughly enjoyed the past six seasons, but I felt the time was right for me to embrace a new challenge. Alun Rossiter

"I fully understand why he has taken the decision to grasp this opportunity. It is a much more far-reaching role than the part-time position he has held at Swindon."

Rossiter's replacement is due to be announced in the next few weeks.

"The club will always have a huge place in my heart," Rossiter added.

"I've thoroughly enjoyed the past six seasons, but I felt the time was right for me to embrace a new challenge."

Rossiter believes he can bring the best out of the Bees riders.

"I've come in, and the team's already been done so there's nothing I can do on that side. But looking at the boys there's scope for improvement for all of them," he said.

The Bees Australian rider Rory Schlein welcomed the appointment but admitted it took him by surprise.

"I could not believe it," Schlein said to BBC Coventry and Warwickshire.

"He's going to bring a lot to the table. On the youth side he can relate to some of us lads. He can joke and laugh and I think last year it got a little too serious and a little full-on."

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