THE APPOINTMENT of former Plymouth Argyle chairman Paul Stapleton as the new chairman of Tavistock AFC is major coup for the club.

Paul spent the best part of eight years as chairman of Plymouth Argyle FC between 2001 and 2009, and together with manager Paul Sturrock took the club to new heights with two promotions to the championship league.

His vast experience and knowledge will be vital in The Lambs desire to move up the non-league pyramid, said club vice chairman Phil Lowe.

The Lambs manager Stuart Henderson said: We are delighted that Paul Stapleton has agreed to take the reins at Langsford Park. We hope it will be as successful as Paul’s tenure as Plymouth Argyle chairman.

‘I can recall Paul’s time at Plymouth Argyle being a real successful time at the club winning promotion into the equivalent of what is now the championship. This demonstrates Paul’s pedigree and the quality of the appointment.

‘The club has done an exceptional job to secure the services of someone who has been there and done it at Devon’s leading professional club. ‘

Stuart said Stapleton’s business nouse would prove to be a very astute signing for the Langsford Park outfit who were top of the Western League when the season ended.

‘I have felt for a number of years that the committee and everyone behind the scenes at the club have worked hard which has helped contribute to our success on the pitch. In recent seasons our squad has won the SWPL twice, reached the third qualifying round of the FA Cup along with reaching domestic Cup Finals.

‘However it was evident the club had been crying out for a leader to structure the club and to operate both effectively and efficiently as a business off the pitch. With this place we aim for the club to grow and be sustainable and viable in the Southern Football League. Although it may take time for Paul to shape the club off the pitch, the club will develop considerable as a result of this appointment in my eyes.

‘Both myself and assistant manager Ken Ord are excited to work with Paul and look forward to having a close working relationship with our new chairman and the rest of the committee.’