Tributes to Aspinall after pledge

Evo-Stik Northern Premier League Ashton United are attempting to replace their charismatic Chairman David Aspinall after his decision to resign from the top job at Hurst Cross earlier in the week, writes Jez Sayle.

As Chairman, Aspinall - a retired policeman - steered the club through some of its rockiest moments including the Marcus Hallows court case in 2010 when the its very existence was cast into doubt. Following the court's ruling in favour of Hallows, who sued over a serious playing injury he sustained while playing against United, the deal brokered during Aspinall's stewardship helped ensure the future of a club founded in 1878, when football was still very much in its infancy.

Commenting on his resignation, Aspinall said: "I am going to take a break from being involved in running the club. I will however be attending matches as a supporter - my lifelong love for Ashton United has not waned and, after a break, I will consider my options further."

A popular figure at Hurst Cross, Aspinall graduated from the terraces to the boardroom and Director Steve Hobson summed up the feelings of many fans at the Premier Division club. "The Board are unanimous in their desire to see Dave remain as a board member; he is Ashton United through and through and the club most certainly doesn't want to lose people of his calibre," said Hobson.