Lee (40) will work as the Pilgrims’ outright manager — with current joint boss Lee Canoville poised to leave The Jakemans Stadium at the end of the current campaign.

Announcing the news, United chairman David Newton told bufc.co.uk: “I can confirm that Jason Lee has been appointed first team manager for the coming season.

“Due to budget constraints, Lee Canoville has not been offered a new managerial contract and will leave the football club at the end of the season. Lee has been an influential player for the club and has worked very hard in his dual role this season.

“I have nothing but praise for Lee. He is a true professional as well as a true gentleman. It has been an absolute pleasure working with him and he will be missed at the club.

“His place in the club’s history books was of course secured when he captained the team to promotion at the conclusion of the 2009-2010 season. Lee leaves with our thanks and very best wishes for the future and he will always be welcome back at The Jakemans Stadium.

“Although this season has not been the success we had all hoped, I have seen Jason grow into his new management role as time has progressed. He understands where we have fallen short this season and what steps need to be taken next season to ensure that we are more competitive.

“This will be against a continued background of budget restraint that is necessary as we continue to move the club forward to financial stability. Attendances are down over 25 percent on last season which is understandable given the current economic climate and the fact that we were not challenging at the top of the table this season, but of course it does have a negative impact on the finances.

“I would urge as many fans as possible to support Jason and I can assure you we will all be working hard to deliver a more successful season on the pitch.

“Jason will be appointing a new assistant over the coming weeks and squad announcements will follow as players are signed.

“Continuity is important and Jason’s appointment will give him time to further refine the squad and his management team, which will hopefully deliver the success that he desperately wants to deliver for our beloved football club.

“My heartfelt thanks go to all our fans for the fantastic support we have once again received this season and I wish Jason all the very best for the new campaign.”

Canoville, who played for the Pilgrims between 2005 and 2007, returned to The Jakemans Stadium in the summer of 2009 and captained the Pilgrims’ side which won promotion via the UniBond Premier League play-offs in 2010 — and reached the play-offs in Blue Square Bet North last season.

The 31-year-old has currently scored six goals in 169 appearances for the club.