BRIAN KILCULLEN has announced that he is stepping down as chairman of Gravesend & Northfleet with immediate effect.

Mr Kilcullen revealed his decision in his programme notes ahead of Saturday's final match of the season against Burton Albion at Stonebridge Road.

He said: "I have been honoured to be chairman of this club for the last six years and fortunate to have had success on and off the pitch.

"I now intend to concentrate on two very important tasks: raising capital for the club in the short-term and working on the new stadium project in the longer-term.

"We have a five-year business plan based around ensuring we are financially self-sustainable, whilst at the same time having realistic ambitions of getting into and progressing in the Football League. This needs a capital base and I will be focusing on this in the months ahead.

"I firmly believe in this club’s potential and want to be around for the long-term to enjoy what could happen. I want to still be heavily involved with this club in five years time.

"As a director and major shareholder I will still be actively involved. It is just that I feel my time is best spent working on the financing of the club and the new stadium without the many other tasks that come with being chairman.

"I have always considered myself fortunate to be the steward of this club and it is not a decision that has been taken lightly. It is for positive reasons, though I would not be honest if I did not admit that at times it is a very exacting role, both professionally and personally."