Ashby Ivanhoe FC chairman David Morris is to step down as the club's chairman.

David has held the position for just over two years, but now says the time is right to step aside.

The club says it will advertise the position, both internally within the club and externally, with details to be announced.

Ashby Ivanhoe directors Jon Emmerson, Neil Johnson and Derrick Barrett issued a statement this week.

It reads: "We are sad to have to announce that David Morris will be stepping down from the role as Chairman of Ashby Ivanhoe Football Club upon completion of the last First Team fixture this season.

"Having spoken to him personally, this was a very difficult decision for him to take, but those who were not aware when he took over in March 2022, it was to be on a "temporary basis" and he believes that it is now time for him to step aside.

"We have a tremendous team of coaches and volunteers but as always we need more and David feels that a fresh approach at the helm can hopefully bring in some new recruits, innovative ideas and maybe even attract some investment, which we believe is the best way forward to take the club to the next level.

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"Despite the very frustrating season with the weather conditions since November, and the ongoing problems that this brings, the club is in a good place.

"The first team will finish in its highest-ever league position, the club has enjoyed its best ever run in both the FA Cup and FA Vase and are still in with a chance of a trophy in the League Cup.

"The youth section goes from strength to strength with 40-plus teams and hopefully the launch of two Under-18 floodlit teams next season.

"Off the field, the freehold of the ground is secure, planning permission is in place for changing rooms, ground grading requirements and clubhouse refurbishment plus tenancy of the field adjacent for additional pitches and car parking.

"David would like to add that "it has been an honour to have been the chairman of our great club, now twice, and I will be more than happy to stay on in the role as President, and I would like to wish the club all the best in the future."

"We'd like to thank you on behalf of everyone at the club for all you have done over the past two years, having heavily played your part in pushing the club forward to where it is today.

"In the meantime, the Board of Directors have decided to advertise the position, both internally within the club and externally and we are currently preparing this, so that this can be issued at the appropriate time, but should any of you have any comments or concerns, then please get directly in touch with either Neil, Derrick or myself, and we would happy to discuss this in more detail with you."