ANDY Gould has been appointed as general manager of Needham Market.

David Bugg, chairman of Needham, said: “Andy joins us from Bury Town where he was instrumental in that club’s rise up the Non-League pyramid!

“I consider Andy’s appointment to be very important for the future development of Needham Market Football Club. He will be responsible for all team matters off the field, including budgets and player contracts allowing Danny Laws to continue with the great work on the field. I am delighted to welcome Andy on board and hope that he has a long, enjoyable and successful stay with us.”

Danny Laws said: “I have been trying for a number of years to get Andy to join me at the club. Having forged a hugely satisfying and rewarding partnership with Andy managing the Suffolk FA County Youth side between 2003 and 2005, culminating with winning the FA County Youth Cup in 2005 at Portman Road, I knew that we could work together successfully again.”

When asked about his role with the club Gould said: “Seeing players that you have worked with as young lads and to see them progressing into the first team is a great feeling. I know many of the Needham lads from their days at Bury Town so working with them again will be a real pleasure.”

Asked about leaving Bury Town after so many years he added: “I leave behind at Bury many dear friends but I look forward to working with Danny and the lads again and to continue the journey that this football club has started so superbly.”