Spireites set to lose chairman

Spireites: Set to lose chairman

Barrie Hubbard is to step down as Chesterfield chairman at the end of the club's current financial year in June.

Hubbard, 73, a life-long Chesterfield fan, has been on the club's board for the majority of the last 29 years. He helped save the Spireites from serious financial difficulties in 1983 and again in 2001 following the disastrous Darren Brown era which left the club in administration.

His lasting legacy is to have overseen Chesterfield's move to the B2net Stadium in 2010 after 139 years at Saltergate and to leave the club financially stable.

"At the time of the move to the B2net Stadium I indicated that I would be standing down when things had settled in and the time is right now to make that change. I am ready for retirement," Hubbard said in a statement on the club's official website.

"Inevitably there have been ups and downs over the years but I am a lifelong Chesterfield fan and I have only ever wanted what is best for the club. Whatever happens this season, the club is still capable of achieving its goal of Championship football within a five-year timeframe.

"I would urge majority shareholder Dave Allen to take over as chairman as I believe he will lead the club forward to further success. I wish to pay tribute to the Chesterfield fans who over the years have understood the challenges the club has faced. They have shared their views with humour and have been very supportive of the club we all love, and I want to thank them for that."