FORMER Stowmarket Town Chair Neil Sharp has joined Suffolk FA as a Non-Executive Director.

Th 62-year-old, who has lived in Stowmarket all his life, is the latest addition to the Board.

Neil, who attended Stowmarket High School, used to work in accounts administration but is now retired.

He briefly played for both ICI Paints and Haughley United before joining Stowmarket Town and played mainly for the club’s Reserve side as a midfielder.

After he stopped playing Neil got involved on the administration side, becoming Treasurer and latterly Chair for around ten years until standing down last summer.

Neil (pictured above) said: “Joining the Suffolk FA Board was not something I had considered before but when I saw the vacancy advertised I sent in my CV and applied to become a Trustee.

“Once I have expanded my knowledge of how Suffolk FA works, I will try to help clubs across the county in any way that Suffolk FA can do.”

Neil’s daughter Jodie plays for Needham Market Women and his son Jamie played for Stowmarket Town before moving away to Brighton.

He said: “Without the support of my wife Sheila I would not have been involved in local football as long as I have and long may it continue!”

Richard Neal, Suffolk FA Chief Executive, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Neil as a Trustee.

“His experience and knowledge of local football, along with other skillsets from his professional career, will compliment the skills of our existing Trustees, particularly ensuring that local football is considered in discussions and decisions undertaken at Board level.”