In an exclusive interview with Denis Whittle, ERIC ASHTON (pictured) tells the fans why he has resigned as chairman

WITH the new season just a month away, Saints have been rocked this week by the shock resignation of chairman Eric Ashton.

The 62-year-old former Wigan and Great Britain Test captain dropped his bombshell notice to quit the 'hot seat' with immediate effect before Tuesday's board meeting and then left the room, but will continue to serve as a director.

His successor is vice-chairman Tom Ellard, a retired headmaster and Saints director for 15 years. Solicitor Howard Morris is the new vice-chairman.

St. Helens-born Mr Ashton, a father of two and grandfather of four, was awarded an MBE for services to Rugby League in 1966, and has spent 23 years at Knowsley Road, first as coach and then the last 15 as a board member

During his chairmanship, Saints enjoyed arguably their most successful period in their history with consecutive Wembley victories and the lifting of the initial Super League championship.

Outlining his reasons for standing down, Eric told the Star in an exclusive interview: "I reached my decision after considerable heart-searching, but recent differences of opinion on matters of policy left me feeling that I had lost the support of the board and my position became untenable.

"I first heard rumblings that moves were afoot to replace me at the end of last season, and since then I offered to resign on three occasions, but there were no volunteers for the position from any of my colleagues.

"It was also brought to my notice that attempts had been made to canvass proxy votes with a view to reverting back to the old system of holding the position of chairman for no longer than three years. It was was then I decided the time had come to make a stand.

"As a man who likes to think of himself as honest and straightforward, I felt disenchanted and it is in the best interests of the Saints' that someone else be appointed.

"However, it would be remiss of me not to thank the many supporters who have helped me during my four-and-a-half years in office, and I will continue to do my best for Saints if re-elected at next month's AGM," added Mr. Ashton.

Said Mr. Ellard: "Eric Ashton has been a tremendous chairman and is a personal friend. I am sure he will continue his excellent work as a director."

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