Lloyd returns to football at Skem

EVO-STIK League Skelmersdale United have unveiled former Burscough owner Chris Lloyd as their new chairman.

The West Lancashire businessman has taken charge at the Premier Division club after overseeing one of the most successful periods in the history of the Linnets including their Northern Premier League title triumph in 2007.

The 54-year-old married father of three is back in football nearly five years after battling brain cancer that eventually forced him to stand down at Victoria Park. He takes over from Paul Griffiths who has switched to the role of vice-chairman after three seasons at the helm and is pictured welcoming Lloyd to the West Lancashire College Stadium.

Lloyd said: "It is an absolute honour and privilege to have been appointed as chairman of Skelmersdale United Football Club. I have a real passion for Non-league football and for local teams that are rooted in the heart of the community.

"When the opportunity arose to get involved with the club it was an easy decision given the fantastic job done by Tommy Lawson in getting the team up the league pyramid and pushing for more success.

"From my short involvement in Skelmersdale United it is clear that everyone at the club is dedicated to its success and committed to delivering on the club's ambitions and realising the club's potential. It is a challenge I am relishing."

He added: "As a board of directors we recognise that it is our responsibility to give the manager a solid foundation to achieve on-field success. We will be working hard over the summer to ensure the team is given the best chance to be successful."

Skem believe that Lloyd will be a huge asset given his proven skills and experience in Non-League football. New Vice-Chairman Griffiths said: "I am delighted to welcome Chris Lloyd to Skelmersdale United Football Club as the new chairman. Having served as chairman myself for three seasons, I know what a rewarding honour and privilege it is to be involved with Skelmersdale United.

"Now is the right time for me to pass the baton on to Chris who has a strong record of success in Non-League football. In my new role as vice-chairman I will continue to support the football club and work alongside Chris and the other directors to keep moving Skelmersdale United forward."

Manager Tommy Lawson, whose side finished sixth last term, just three points off a promotion play-off spot, added: "As the club’s manager it vital to have a strong working relationship with your chairman, built on trust and confidence. I had that with Paul Griffiths and I know already from my conversations with Chris that a positive and constructive working relationship will continue.

"I have known Chris Lloyd for a number of years and now look forward to working with him at Skelmersdale United. Chris very much shares my ambitions to see Skelmersdale United FC keep improving and progressing."