LOWESTOFT Town legend Jamie Godbold has been appointed as the new manager of Kirkley & Pakefield.

The Thurlow Nunn League Premier Division side have moved swiftly to bring in Godbold to replace Paul Tong, who parted company with the club earlier this week.

The long-serving midfielder was an integral part of the Lowestoft Town side that reached the FA Vase final in 2008, where the Trawlerboys lost 2-1 in heartbreaking fashion to Kirkham & Wesham, but who won the Ridgeons League and Ryman League Division One North.

A statement on the Kirkley & Pakefield website said: “Jamie is a local footballing legend, and has played over 400 games for Lowestoft Town FC, including a more recent loan spell at Gorleston FC.

“He was a fans’ favourite at the Crown Meadow, and took on the job of U18 and U21 manager for the 2012/13 season, as his playing days came to an end.

“Jamie’s football experience and knowledge is undoubted, as he is currently employed by the FA in significant coaching and football development roles.

“With this experience, he plans to be involved in the club from the U7s right through to the first team, helping all young players achieve their true potential.

“This is a very exciting opportunity for Jamie as his first management job in sole charge of a club, and for KPFC, who believe that we now have a manager capable of taking us to the next level, whilst playing attractive football, and assisting young players with their development as individuals.

“Jamie will be adding his own coaching staff to the new first team set up, details of which will be announced when finalised.

“Managers of the Reserves, U18s, A and B teams have all confirmed that they would like to carry on in their roles next season, which is also great news for the club.”