Frank Gainsbury admits he is back to square one after the shock resignation of Dave Titmuss as Worthing head coach.

But the Thunder chairman insists there are no hard feelings with the veteran playcaller.

Titmuss is stepping down for personal reasons less than two months after leading Thunder to their first-ever British League play-off berth. Thunder had been keen to secure his services on a long-term basis and it appeared almost certain he would remain in charge for next season.

Titmuss, who replaced Gary Smith a year ago, would not expand on his reasons for quitting but there has been no falling out behind the scenes.

Gainsbury said: “I did not expect to be searching for a new coach again so soon. Dave’s departure has come as a surprise to me but I respect his personal reasons.

“I would have loved him to stay but we part on great terms and I would love the chance to work with him again.”

Titmuss was last night being linked with a move to Guildford Heat but Gainsbury added: “He will not be going to work for another BBL club.

“No doubt we will now be besieged by applications from people who want to coach in the BBL but it’s not an easy situation.”