Jon Downing leaves after 18 years

Former Stafford Rangers chairman Jon Downing has decide to leave the board of directors at Marston Road after 18 years at the club.

Downing stepped down last summer but opted to stay on the board but, this close season, has decide to sever all of his ties.

The 60-year-old, who turns 61 in June, had two spells as chairman, either side of a stint by current board member Cliff Went.

His replacement for 2010-11, Mike Hughes, is also leaving the post and doubles up as club secretary but, for the latter role, a new replacement has been appointed.

Robbie Mullen will work closely with Hughes over the next six weeks to phase him out of the role, possibly before the end of June.

Mullen has come recommended from board member Reg Bates and will come in as Downing departs, with Hughes today paying tribute to his predecessor's years of service at Marston Road.

He said: "I have known Jon a long, long time and I am sorry to see him go, but he wants to be a fan now and enjoy the football, much like myself.

"I am sure he will still be involved with the club in some capacity, as it's in his blood as much as mine, he's been one of the stalwarts over the years and he will be a hard body to replace.

"Jon's got his own reasons for picking this particular time, but it will be a great loss to the club."