CHARLIE Griffin could have had a hat-trick on his Chippenham Town return according to boss Mark Collier.

The Hardenhuish Park legend made his comeback for the Bluebirds in the 4-2 success at struggling Banbury United.

Having signed from Conference North side Gloucester City late last month, Griffin opened the scoring against Puritans in the 17th minute.

And while Chippenham’s second goal went down as Tom Ryan own goal, the Chippenham boss was adamant that it was Griffin’s strike.

“Charlie scored twice,” he said. “I know that it has gone down as an own goal, but it was Charlie’s.

“He had another chance so he could have had a hat-trick – it was great to have him back.

“His display shows just why we have brought him back. He is here until the end of the season and hopefully we can do something for him next year too.”

As well as Griffin and the own goal, the Bluebirds went in at the break 3-0 up with Ashan Holgate also on target.

“It was great to see both our strikers on the scoresheet, it is something that we have been missing,” Collier said.

“Charlie gets in and around the six yard box and takes his chances and Ashan works incredibly hard.

“The game was out of sight by half-time, Banbury is always a tough place to go – they are fighting for their lives.

“They came back at us in the second half and pulled a goal by, but we scored again (through Alex Ferguson) and that was game over.

“We can go to Burnham on Saturday with a bit of confidence because these are the games that we have to win if we are to finish the season in the top 10.”

Meanwhile, the Bluebirds this afternoon confirmed that Bryan Smith had left Hardenhuish Park.

Bryan Smith has decided to leave the club, the midfielder having made 12 appearances this season.

Chairman Neil Blackmore said: "We are sorry to announce that Bryan Smith has decided to leave the club with immediate affect.

"We would like take this opportunity to thank Bryan for all his efforts during his time at Chippenham Town and wish him all the very best and with whatever he decides to do in the future.''