Margate owner/chairman John Webb has refuted suggestions that Ryan Day resigned as chief executive because the two men had fallen out.

Lifelong Gate supporter Day announced his resignation on Twitter last Thursday evening, having informed Mr Webb of his decision in writing earlier that day.

The 25-year-old - who was the youngest football CEO in the country - said his decision had been made with the 'heaviest heart.'

The news led to speculation that he and Mr Webb had fallen out, but the Gate chairman denied any rift and said he had urged Day - who succeeded Chris Pope in April - to reconsider his decision.

Mr Webb explained: "Ryan phoned me as I was driving back from Chesterfield last Thursday. He said it was not right at the moment for him (at the club) and he wanted a break. I did say would he reconsider.

"He was not happy with some of the decisions that had been made but that happens at a football club and there certainly has never been a personal row between myself and Ryan.

"We're sorry we've lost him, he was a valued member of the club and he will always be welcome here."

Mr Webb says there has already been interest in the CEO vacancy both from inside and outside of the club but he said the Blues will take their time over any appointment.

He added:" Going forward the club has already had people contact us about the job and that's encouraging.

"In an ideal world I'd like to get the post filled sooner rather than later but it's such an important role that we have to make sure we get the right person, ideally someone who has got a business background.

"I'll take advice from people including Nikki (manager Nikki Bull) because after all, he'll have to work with the new person."

Mr Webb says he is aware of rumours linking former chairman Keith Piper with a return to Hartsdown, but he claims they are wide of the mark.

He explained: "Keith Piper is not in any way going to take the club over. There have been no discussions between me and Keith on that matter.

"He's come to games and I have a good relationship with him but he's certainly not approached me about buying the club and I've not approached him."