STOWMARKET Town are looking for a chairman after the resignation of Andy Horrex.And long-term Stowmarket follower John Gillingham says that he feels for the future of non-league football as it is getting harder to attract people to get involved with clubs.

Elvin King

STOWMARKET Town are looking for a chairman after the resignation of Andy Horrex.

And long-term Stowmarket follower John Gillingham says that he feels for the future of non-league football as it is getting harder to attract people to get involved with clubs.

Dan Smith has taken over as acting chairman until the Ridgeons League First Division club holds an extraordinary general meeting on March 16.

Andy recently spent a few days in hospital after suffering what was believed to be a minor stroke, and this coupled with his marriage in June has led to his decision.

In his letter of resignation, Andy said: “I don't want to jeopardise events away from football and with my position changed I no longer have just myself to consider.”

Andy has been connected with Stowmarket since their move to their current Greens Meadow ground in 1984/85 and has been chairman for six seasons.

He has also been involved in numerous other roles at the club and John, who is press officer and a former committee member of long standing, said that Andy will be missed.

“Andy admits that he is a worrier and this has perhaps taken it toll,” said John. “For the first time in his life he has other passions in life outside football.

“It will be strange to not have him involved although we hope to see him around.

“He is well respected and a good friend to Stowmarket - and to other clubs in the league.

“Andy gave up so much of his time to Stowmarket Town.”

Despite having a rich heritage, success has been limited over the last few years at Greens Meadow and attendance figures have been one of the lowest in the Ridgeons League as they have been overtaken by the likes of Needham Market, Debenham and Walsham-le-Willows.

“Stowmarket Town has clearly been dismissed by most in the town for many years,” added John, whose wife Christine is in her 16th season as fixture secretary.

“And the well-being of clubs like Stowmarket is quite a worry.

“Officials are getting older and it is becoming increasingly difficult to replace them.

I wonder what it will be like in 10 years.

“Non-league football, apart from a few exceptions, is struggling and the likes of Gorleston, Diss Town and Long Melford would agree with that.

“To find people happy to be involved in running clubs these days is getting increasingly difficult.”