Andrew Graham, who stepped down as Hereford FC chairman yesterday, has said that he has enjoyed his time in the post.
In a statement posted on the OS Graham, who is now vice-chairman, said that the time for a change was 'right'.
“Having initially joined the board as a HND in May 2018, I have enjoyed my time in the role as your Chairman, particularly my time with my fellow supporters and specifically the Disabulls and those that travel week in, week out, to support the team, after all, what is football without fans?
“That said, I feel that as I have seen myself propelled forwards to become the figurehead representative for National League Clubs pursuing a fairer allocation of the recent grant monies, I now need to focus on this as it is exceptionally important to our financial position and future sustainability. There are also other ongoing Club-related projects that need my undivided attention.
“Additionally, the demands placed upon me by the recent COVID crisis and as the Clubs official Covid Officer, have taken much of my time away from personal business interests and charity work I am involved with. It is equally important that I gain that time back in order to give them the attention they require.
“I have been involved in the continuing discussions with Herefordshire Council regarding improvements to Edgar Street, presiding over a challenging period in the Clubs history, both on and off the pitch and brought some much-needed internal organisational changes.
“I am pleased that, even though we have had to cut our cloth accordingly this year, we are currently operating within the reduced budget we set ourselves.
“The time was right for change. During a crisis such as this, the challenges faced, the natural void presented, it was important to maintain the new stability and look to the future.
“I was always keen to ensure that we had the right blend to take us forwards and am excited, as a fan, that we have a natural successor to the ‘hot seat.’ I know that Rob will bring the ‘hands on Managing Director’ style that he possesses, into the fore. He is a successful, proven businessman, who will undoubtedly take us forwards.
“Behind the scenes we have put in place significant changes with business continuity and resilience, through the introduction of more structure and process.
“The HFC Board also asked that I look to take on the position of Vice-Chair to Rob Crawford and I have gladly agreed to ensure continuity for the Club.
“I remain committed to supporting Rob and the rest of the Board from my new role, whilst I continue to address the disparity of the allocation of our grant, to that which I maintain was due to our Club.
“Finally, let me put on record the support I have had from the genuine, loyal fanbase who support us on and off the pitch and offer such friendship on our awaydays, our amazing volunteers whose dedication and professionalism is held in the highest regard inside and outside of Edgar Street, the commercial sponsors, service providers, those fellow HUST members who have supported me, the Independent Shareholders, Herefordshire Council (whom I shall continue to work alongside) and others, such as Hereford Police and the Safety Advisory Group.
“I am sure that we will all now get behind Rob and the Club and provide the loyal, dedicated support he richly deserves as he takes over the reins.”