The appointment is part of the FA’s plans to improve the standard of coaching in England, which was one of the key strands in FA Chairman Greg Dyke’s England Commission.

Jamie (pictured above) will be Head of Coaching for the new Suffolk FA Coaches Academy and will also deliver a number of Suffolk FA Learning Courses.

He will help and support the development of coaches through their FA coaching pathway courses.

His appointment means there is now a strong coaching programme in Suffolk with the FA Skills team for 5-11s, six FA Mentors and a County Coach Developer.

Jamie said: “It’s an extremely exciting initiative for coach development in the county.

“My role will not only see coaches qualify through courses but more importantly offer a support mechanism for coaches thereafter.

“The Suffolk Coaches Academy is a unique opportunity to further develop the standard of coaching in the county, and I am extremely proud to be part of the county’s programme.”

Suffolk FA Football Development Manager Nathan French said: “I’m delighted that the FA has appointed Jamie as our new County Coach Developer for Suffolk. This is great news for the county and I know Jamie needs no introduction to most people involved in grassroots football.

“After working with Jamie on various projects over the last five years, I’m delighted to be working closely with him on his new role and specifically our coach development programmes.

“We are all about promoting positive environments and giving people a great football experience and I know Jamie shares these views.

“We are passionate about developing coaches in Suffolk and I believe we have some fantastic coaches involved in grassroots football. I’m looking forward to seeing Jamie support these coaches in the months and years ahead.”

With thanks to The Suffolk FA