Shock as Kidderminster Harriers' chairman Mark Serrell resigns

Serrell announced his immediate departure from the club via a statement on their official website after today's 2-2 draw with Braintree, in which he appeared to claim abusive attacks from fans on social media was the key reason behind his decision.

His statement read: "It is with a heavy heart that I have today decided to resign from my position as chairman of Kidderminster Harriers Football Club, with immediate effect.

"I am proud and honoured to have played a part in helping to rebuild Kidderminster Harriers over the past three years or so, but during the past few weeks it has become apparent that supporters have lost faith in my leadership.

"I have always respected the fans view - although a minority have now tainted my opinion because of the personal nature of their vile and abusive attacks on me via social and electronic media.

"Both (my wife) Ruth and I have family in the local area including parents, children and siblings and we are concerned about their well-being. It is now my intention to put my wife, family and business interests before those of Kidderminster Harriers Football Club although I still intend to support the club."

Serrell joined the Harriers late in 2010 and played a key role in saving the club from administration.

But recently he has been the subject of controversy, following his decision to sack popular manager Steve Burr last month and replace him with Andy Thorn. Though the new manager guided Harriers to an historic FA Cup win over Peterborough they have not won since and today's draw leaves them tenth in the Skrill Conference, six points outside the play-offs.

In his statement, Serrell admitted many supporters had "lost faith in his leadership".

Serrell confirmed his wife Ruth would also be relinquishing her directorship.