“We conducted a thorough recruitment process over Matt Walker’s departure,” said head coach Ian Westwood.

“Jim stood out as someone who can bring a high level of batting expertise while complementing the strengths already within our staff group.

“He knows the club and many of the players well and brings real energy and clarity to his coaching.

“Walks will be a difficult man to replace. The players have loved working with him and I’ve always valued his support and experience. He’s someone who is held in the highest regard across the club and I’m sure Jim will be no different.”

The son and grandson of actors David and Patrick, Troughton made his first-class debut in 2001, having come through the Bears ranks at the same time as Ian Bell.

A brilliant fielder, his career was cut short by back trouble, but he still scored more than 14,000 runs in all formats of the game.

He helped win the 2002 Benson & Hedges Cup, the CB40 in 2010 and two Championships, in 2004 and then again as skipper in 2012.

After his appointment as coach for the 2017 season, he led the Bears to promotion in 2018.