A PRESSING personal problem has forced John Delaney to resign as chairman of St Neots Town with immediate effect.

A PRESSING personal problem has forced John Delaney to resign as chairman of St Neots Town with immediate effect.

The announcement was made at the weekend with Delaney, who had been absent from Neots games for nearly a month, stepping down - and Saints owner Mike Kearns stepping in to fill the void going forward.

Delaney said: “Everyone knows how passionate I have been about the club and have seen the level of commitment that I have made.

“I have a pressing personal matter to deal with away from the club that I need to concentrate my efforts on.

“The timing is not brilliant, as we are at a critical stage of the season, but I cannot give the commitment the role requires.

“I’ve certainly not fallen out with anybody - it’s nothing like that - just unfortunate and a real shame.

“But in reality, it’s an easy decision, as I have to put my family first.”

Owner Kearns praised the outgoing chairman’s immense contribution to the Saints going back many years, and also says the door will always be open for Delaney.

“It is a massive loss not to have John by my side moving forward, but I fully understand his decision and family will always come first,” Kearns said.

“John has dedicated so much time and energy to the club of which I, for one, appreciate and quite frankly the club would not be where it is at this present time without John’s efforts.

“I have left it open with John that, when the time is right for him, a roll within the club will always be there for him.

“On behalf of everyone connected with St Neots Town, I would like to thank John for his immense contribution to the club and wish him well for the future.”