NEWPORT County AFC have announced that Lewis Richards will be taking up the post of football secretary from June 16.

Cwmbran-born Richards replaces Tim Lane in the role.

A statement on the club’s official website reads: “Lewis joins the club from the Football Association of Wales and has extensive experience of various aspects of football administration from his time at his previous employers.

“Joining the FAW three years ago after a successful period volunteering at the Welsh Football Trust, Cwmbran-born and bred Lewis started off in the safeguarding section of the compliance department before moving to player administration where he has been overseeing the registration of all professional and amateur players in Wales for the previous two seasons.

“In addition to working in the compliance department, Lewis has also undertaken various other roles in his time at the FAW including the task of lead official with the Wales U23 semi-pro squads that often contained Lee Evans and Andrew Hughes.

“Lewis has an awareness of the unique nature of a Welsh club competing in the Football League, including in depth knowledge of the FIFA TMS system and how the international nature of transfers affect the club.

“With a background in local football having coached both Croesyceiliog and Caerleon youth teams, Lewis understands the passion for football in the area and is looking forward to the prospect of joining Newport County AFC at an exciting time.”

Richards said: “Club football is something I’ve always wanted to get into and to be able to do that with my local Football League club is an opportunity I just couldn’t say no to.

“Newport is a city that has always played a big part in my life, growing up with family and friends, along with studying at Newport University (now University of South Wales).

“Through my role as football secretary I hope to be a part of the club’s development and to assist Dave Boddy, Justin Edinburgh and the team to reach our full potential over the coming seasons.”

Chief executive Dave Boddy said: “We are delighted that Lewis has agreed to accept the position.

“He has a good solid experience and knowledge of the role, and what is required, from his time at the FAW.

“He is another excellent signing for the club and exactly fits the mould of what we are looking for.”