TAUNTON Town’s assistant manager Mo Hopkins has been appointed as the club’s head of football development.

The new role will see Hopkins seeking to develop and strengthen footballing opportunities underneath the Taunton Town first team which could include the creation of new teams and the formation of links with local colleges and schools.

Hopkins, who is a UEFA B coach and has worked at both Yeovil Town and Bristol Rovers, said: “It is certainly a desire of the club to build firm foundations and the early evidence provides me with confidence to invest more time.

“I’ve worked with a number of clubs and had some great experiences. There is a real enthusiasm for football in the South-West region which can definitely be built upon. “Many clubs are linking with colleges and schools, developing a pathway for students in more than one field – I believe we need to explore this option.

“Taunton has many teams in the area. Along with the first team we ourselves have a youth team and a ladies team.

“If we can tie these all together and have a more holistic approach we can then look to further enhance what we provide.

“We have to embrace support and have people involved with a desire plus investment in the game. We have numerous coach educators in the area and our local Somerset FA is exceptionally good at supporting the growth of football.” Chairman Kevin Sturmey said: “This is an exciting opportunity for Mo and the club to build upon some foundations already in place and create associations that will benefit both Taunton Town and the local community.

“We are delighted that Mo has accepted the role as he has made a really positive impact since joining the club and I believe his experience and ideas can help us make real progress in developing a sustainable football structure in the town.”