Lowestoft Town manager Jamie Godbold is stepping down from his role as first team boss as he takes on a significant coaching position with Ipswich Town FC.

After outstanding service to his hometown football club over 20 years as both a player and manager, Godbold will however be staying on as Director of Football at Lowestoft and supporting the board on a consultancy basis.

Club officials confirmed the fans' favourite had informed the board of his decision, with the players told after an excellent 2-5 away win at Hitchin Town FC last night (Tuesday).

Godbold will take on the position of Coach Development Manager at Ipswich Town.

A spokesman for the Lowestoft Town FC's board of directors said: "While we are all gutted to be losing Jamie, this was too good an opportunity for him to miss.

"However Godders will still be involved in his head of football role with the club, and on the board of directors, as he will still be the lead on all football development matters from the first team down to our thriving youth section."

Club officials moved swiftly to seal a new replacement as first team manager - with stalwart clubman Andy Reynolds making a welcome return to Lowestoft Town.

The former goalkeeper and assistant manager has been involved with Lowestoft for 15 years - as a player, assistant manager and head of youth and education at the club.

The spokesman for the club's board of directors added: "We are delighted Andy has agreed to be the new first team manager.

"He has a long involvement with the club, he’s a fans favourite and set up the club's Centre of Excellence, reserves and played a key role in the development of the scholars.

"He will be a great appointment for the club - we are very excited for the future growth of the club."

Lowestoft assistant manager Jordan Southgate will also be stepping down and moving onto new challenges.

The spokesman for the club's board of directors said: "Jordan came in wanting to learn and develop under Godders, so with Jamie leaving he has decided to step down as well.

"We would like to thank Jordan, who has done a superb job for the club, and we wish him well for the future."

Godbold steps down with Lowestoft currently 16th in the Southern League Premier Central division after they'd successfully sealed a return to Step 3 football as Isthmian League North Division champions last season.

He will be in the dugout this Saturday for the final time as he oversees the home match against Harborough Town at the Fosters Solicitors Community Stadium with the club celebrating his remarkable 20-years service - 13 as a player and seven as manager at his hometown club.