Ramsbottom United chairman Harry Williams steps back after 60 years at the club

Ramsbottom United chairman Harry Williams has announced he is stepping back after six decades leading the club he helped establish in 1966.

Williams has been involved with Ramsbottom United F.C. since its formation and is believed to have served one of the longest spells as chairman in non league football.

Former club secretary Tony Cunningham said Williams felt the time was right to hand responsibilities over to a new group.

Cunningham said: “Harry told me he was thinking of stepping back, and after 60 years at the helm, he has certainly earned a break”.

“He then suggested we run the club with a new committee, and offered me the position of Vice Chairman, with the aim of creating that committee. This has now been done, and we are all excited at the prospect of being able to guide the club over the coming years.

“As for Harry, he will hopefully still attend matches, but now with the ability to enjoy the games without all the other duties which have restricted his viewing time for so long.

“He has deserved to be able to sit in the sponsors lounge, enjoying a couple of ciggies and a couple of beers!”

One of the new committee’s first decisions was to appoint former assistant Rob Henry as manager following the retirement of Steve Wilkes.

The club narrowly missed out on promotion in each of the last two seasons after defeats in the play offs.

Supporters and committee members are now hoping the new management team can secure a return to the Northern Premier League during the upcoming campaign.