Swindon Town Women have announced that Richard Wood will return as manager of the team for the forthcoming season.

Wood took over after the departure of Mike Cook to Gloucester City in September and led the team to their highest points tally as they finished fourth in the FA Women's National League Division One South West last season.

The team also won the county crown as they won the Wiltshire County Cup 4-0 against Purton Women at the County Ground last season.

However, Wood departed the club in April, two days after winning the county cup, saying that he had made the difficult decision to give the team sufficient time to make plans for next season.

But he has now returned to the team with immediate effect as he takes charge of the team for the 2024/25 season, with Goalkeeping Coach, Dave Tomlinson, Physio Abigail Simpson, and Analyst Samir Jolsen-Smail also remaining part of the coaching staff.

Upon his reappointment, Richard Wood said: "For me, it is a tremendous honour to serve and represent this club, and the time away has made me realise just how deeply I care for the club and the incredible people who work here.

"I am extremely fortunate and grateful to have the chance to return and continue my journey with the team. I sincerely thank the owner and club for their unwavering support and I also deeply appreciate the players and staff that have done the same.

"I am excited to further grow and develop our Women’s section with a club who are committed to building an ambitious, sustainable, and exciting team for the future."

Wood will head up the side's challenge in the FA Women's National League Division One South West.

Their preparations for the league season begin in July as they have announced five pre-season fixtures with clashes against Chesham United, Oxford United, Worcester City, Sutton Coldfield, and Cardiff Met before the season gets underway in August.

Head of Women's Football, Mandie Coe added: "I am delighted that Richard has agreed to return as our women’s manager. We are all looking forward to another season of exciting football and for him to continue his journey with the team."

Ahead of the season, the team have invited players to register their interest in playing for the team next season, with suitable players being invited to show their talent in an open training session.