Gainsborough Trinity chairman to step down

Wood took over the reins of the club in January 2024 following the departure of former chairman Richard Kane.

A local businessman, he has been involved with the Holy Blues for a number of years prior to taking up the role of chairman, sponsoring the first team shirts and stadium name through his digital marketing company, Kal Group.

Due to issues with his health, Wood will step down from his role following the conclusion of Gainsborough's final fixture of the season against Radcliffe, leaving the management of the club to the board of directors.

In a statement to fans, Wood said: "With the end of this year’s football season fast approaching and just the final game at home against Radcliffe remaining, I wanted to take this opportunity to thank everyone connected to the club for their continued support this season.

"From the manager, players, support staff, club volunteers and especially you the supporters, it has been great to have you all on this season’s journey, and with us just missing out on the play-offs what a journey it has been.

"Unfortunately, due to ill health, I will not be continuing as Chairman after the Radcliffe game and thank everyone for their support.

"I hope my short reign as Chairman has brought about some long-term changes at the club and feel I leave the club in a stronger position on and off the pitch, from when I took over.

"I would like to put on record my full support for Russ Wilcox and am overjoyed that he has already signed to manage the team for next season. I am sure you will all join me by getting behind him as he further improves on this year’s results.

"I hand the baton back over to the current board, who will continue to run the club as they have previously. I wanted to make this announcement sooner, rather than later to allow them time to make any decisions for the upcoming season swiftly.

"Being a chairman of a football club is a big commitment and to do it well requires a great deal of time and effort, along with deep pockets to make sure a club like Gainsborough is successful.

"However I feel due to my health, I can no longer commit the time to the club that it deserves and with a heavy heart have made the decision to step down.

"You will still see me from time to time supporting Trinity from the stands and the Holy Blues will always have a special place in my heart, but feel the time is right for others to take over the challenge instead of me.

"Once again, I want to say a big thank you to everyone I have met on this journey and long may the club grow and prosper.

"Please make sure you all get behind the Holy Blues next season in its new chapter and I am sure the club will only go from strength to strength."

Photo credit: Gainsborough Trinity