The Trust Board of Runcorn Linnets has unanimously elected Peter Cartledge as the club's new chairman.

While congratulating Peter, board members passed on thanks and good wishes to Dave Jones, who resigned as chair at last night's meeting for health reasons but continues as a director.

Peter will stay on as club secretary for the remainder of the season to ensure continuity in the key administrative role.

Jeff Jago steps up to succeed Peter as the vice-chairman, Jeff's nomination being unopposed.

Peter Cartledge said: "Thanks to the board for appointing me as chairman, its a role that is an honour and a privilege to have and I feel very lucky.

"Special thanks to Dave for his honesty about his health issues and the dignified way he has stepped down, I am really pleased that he wishes to stay on the board.

"Moving forward, I am excited to continue to work with the board to drive the club forward, I am not in any way underestimating the challenge."

Jeff Jago said: "I am honoured to take on the role of vice-chairman at Runcorn Linnets Football Club.

"I've obviously got big shoes to fill with all the work Peter Cartledge had taken on and I would just like to say thank you to all board members for accepting me in this role, I'll give it my best."

Dave Jones said: "Due to personal reasons, I have made the difficult decision to step down as chairman.

"Late last year, I shared with you all my battle with my mental health, I felt I could deal with my issues and still be an effective chairman, but I have come to realise that I was wrong.

"It has been an absolute privilege to be the chairman of this great football club, but I step down in the knowledge that I am leaving the chairmanship in the very capable hands of my good friend Peter Cartledge.

"He has basically been the chairman whilst helping me through my issues and I know he will take the club on to even greater success on and off the field.

"I will remain on the board to support Pete and the club in any way I can but for now, I need to concentrate on getting better.

"Thank you to everyone who has supported me over the last year, and I'll hopefully still see you all at games."