FORMER Swindon Town academy goalkeeping coach Jamie Lloyd-Davies has been confirmed as the new manager of Swindon Town Women.

With five days remaining until the start of their FA Women’s National League Division One South West campaign away at Southampton, Lloyd-Davies was confirmed as Dan Jones’ replacement following a month-long search for a suitable successor.

Jones’ departure from Town Women at the start of the month came as a shock to club staff and players alike, as he revealed time away from the club was necessary so he could attend to a family illness.

The unfortunate resignation has, however, opened the door for Lloyd-Davies, who was present in the dugout on Sunday as Town Women lost their FA Women’s National League Cup determining round tie 4-0 to Milton Keynes Dons at Fairford.

But Lloyd-Davies’ ties with Swindon Town go back further than his days as academy goalkeeping coach.

He said: “I used to go and watch Swindon Town as a youngster. That emotional tie to the club has always been there.

“I’ve been wanting to get into management for a while having been involved in women’s and girls’ football for a few seasons.

“I’m delighted to secure the role.”

With previous experience at clubs including Weston-super-Mare and Corsham Town, Lloyd-Davies arrives with a respectable level of experience.

The new Town boss has 15 retained players from last season available to use, including proven defender Polly New and fans’ favourite Alice Bowden.

In addition, the club has drafted in two fresh faces this season – namely Gipsy Viveash, who returns from a brief absence, and Ellie Olds.

Work behind the scenes has also impressed Lloyd-Davies, who will officially take charge of his first game on Sunday when Town travel to Southampton.

He added: “From what I’ve seen, the transformation going on behind the scenes has been second to none.

“The people they’ve managed to recruit to support the club’s growth and raise its standards are good.

“That coupled with knowing there are good people involved in the club already hopefully means we can head in the right direction.

“It’s amazing to be a part of it.”