BROMSGROVE Sporting chief Mike Burke insists boss Paul Smith has the club's full support despite contract talks stalling.

Sporting officials and Smith could not iron out a deal with the manager claiming "a massive gulf" between the parties over how to progress the club.

Burke says the offer is still on the table and he wants to work towards giving Smith a contract at the Midland League title-chasers.

He said: "Paul was given the contract and we spent months trying to get it right.

"But there are still a few issues that need to be sorted out so that everyone is happy.

"There were clauses that said we wouldn't stand in his way if a Conference club came calling so we do want to work with him.

"In the end it was agreed now wasn't the right time but discussions will hopefully continue.

"For now, we don't want it to become a distraction and want to stay focused on ending the season as best as we can.

"We know Paul is doing a fantastic job for us and we are supporting him.

"We have increased our playing budget by 10 per cent recently because we want to win this league.

"That is what our fan base deserves. We want to keep moving forwards. Paul has got our support and backing."

But Smith said: "It was clear the club don't want me to sign a contract.

"There is a massive gulf in our thoughts on how to take the club forwards.

"I just want to put it to bed now and concentrate on winning a second successive promotion.

"I'll then take a long, hard look in the summer and decide what to do."

Meanwhile, Coleshill Town went top of the Premier Division last night with a 3-1 win at fellow high-fliers Sporting Khalsa.

Westfields fell 6-0 at Highgate United and Stourport Swifts beat AFC Wulfrunians 1-0 with an own goal.

Hereford FC lead the Southern League Premier Division by four points after beating St Neots Town 1-0 thanks to Dara O'Shea watched by 2,402 at Edgar Street.

Adam Davie (2), Ashley Sammons and ex-Tamworth boss Andy Morrell gave Redditch United a 4-2 win over Gosport Borough.