Weymouth FC Part Ways with Commentator Ben Ashelford After On-Air Remarks

Weymouth FC have confirmed they have parted company with club commentator Ben Ashelford following remarks made during a recent live broadcast on Radio Terras.

In a statement published on 6 October, the club said the decision came “after a review of this week’s radio commentary” and that Ashelford would “no longer be commentating on matches or participating in official club activities.”

“The club was disappointed with the tone and content of Ben’s recent remarks, as well as the subsequent misrepresentation of events,” the statement read.
“Following discussions, both parties have agreed to part company. We thank Ben for his contribution and wish him well in the future.”

The statement added that Weymouth FC would appoint a new commentary team and that “no further comments will be made on this matter, which is now considered closed.”

Shortly after the announcement, Ben Ashelford released his own statement on social media, acknowledging that his comments were inappropriate in the context of official club media.

I accept that I made a mistake and I accept that I was wrong,” he said.
“I also accept that a rant of that kind of criticism has no place at all coming from the club’s official media station.”

Ashelford explained that his outburst stemmed from frustration about the club’s direction and admitted to a mistaken assumption that board members had left the match early — something he later retracted.

Having volunteered as a commentator and media contributor for several seasons, Ashelford reflected positively on his time with the club and its supporters.

“I’ve had many incredible memories following this football club,” he said. “To every listener, supporter, and volunteer who’s worked alongside me — thank you.
I’ll support Weymouth FC until my dying day. I truly believe in Steve Claridge and this group of players. Be loud, be proud, and focus on the football.”

Ashelford’s comments during the broadcast — in which he sharply criticised the club’s leadership — drew strong reactions from supporters online. While many praised his honesty, others agreed the tone was unprofessional for a club-affiliated outlet.

The club’s swift statement aimed to draw a line under the controversy as Weymouth continue their National League South campaign under manager Steve Claridge.

Despite the fallout, both the club and Ashelford have expressed mutual respect and gratitude, signalling an amicable if difficult conclusion to the episode.

The fallout over Ashelford’s dismissal comes amid a turbulent period behind the scenes at the Bob Lucas Stadium, with a string of director resignations reshaping the club’s leadership structure.

Over the past several weeks, Weymouth FC have confirmed the departures of three senior board members:

Pete Saxby, who resigned as Director and Company Secretary.

Ryan Park, who also stepped down as a director with immediate effect.

Paul Maitland, the club’s former Chairman, who left his position in August.

Each resignation was confirmed in official club statements, which expressed “regret” at the departures while thanking the individuals for their service.

Following Maitland’s exit, Ralph Ricardo — a long-standing director — assumed the role of interim Chairman.