WORCESTER City boss John Snape has spoken of his disappointment at seeing Tyler Weir move “sideways” to Westfields rather than climb the non-league pyramid.

Weir will join City’s Midland League Premier Division rivals after negotiations broke down over a new deal with cash-strapped Worcester.

The 27-year-old made 28 appearances for Snape’s side last season but finished the campaign with Redditch United on a dual registration deal.

Snape tried to retain Weir who first joined City in 2012, but with money dwindling at the exiled club they were unable to agree terms.

“I am very disappointed to lose Tyler,” Snape said.

“I have had a great relationship with Tyler over the years but he feels that a move to Westfleds was better for him.

“Due to the implications at the football club financially I could not come to an agreement that would make Tyler agree to sign for City.

“I hope that’s the only reason why he has gone.

“But I wish Tyler all the best at his new home.

“He is a character and is good to have around any football club.”

Last summer Weir told the Worcester News he took a pay cut of more than 50 per cent and turned down offers from two National League clubs to stay at Worcester following their three-tier drop.

The Ledbury-based player will now move to Hereford club Westfields who have appealed to the Football Association in a bid to be switched to the Hellenic League.

Asked whether the door would be open for Weir to return to City in the future, Snape said: “I like players to leave in the right way.

“Usually I like them to go higher. But when they go sideways it's disappointing in my mind.

“All the players that have left this club have moved to a higher step of football and played at that level.

“If people do that it makes the blow a little bit lighter.

“But maybe Tyler needed a new challenge and he has taken that.

“He is a smashing lad and will always pick up the phone to me so there is no problem at all.”

Snape also failed in his efforts to capture Worcester-based striker Nick MacPherson who scored 28 goals in 50 games for Stourport Swifts last term.

MacPherson will make the step up to the Southern League Premier Central Division to play for Halesowen Town.

“Nick has decided to make the move to a higher level with Halesowen and good luck to him,” Snape added.

“I have been there myself and it is a fantastic club.”