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Chairman of 'world's first' football club leaves role

Simon Thake
BBC News, Yorkshire
Sheffield FC A man with a grey beard smiles as he sits in a red leather chair surrounded by a number of trophiesSheffield FC
Richard Tims has resigned from his role as chairman of Sheffield FC after 27 years

The chairman of Sheffield FC, widely considered to be the world's first football club, has left the role after 27 years.

The club, which currently plays in Dronfield but is hoping to move to a new site at Meadowhead in Sheffield, was founded in 1857 and played a key role in providing the rules of modern football.

Announcing the news on Tuesday, Richard Tims wrote: "It is with heavy heart that after 27 years of service I have left [Sheffield FC]". He said he could not share "the specifics" of the decision.

In a joint statement, the directors of Sheffield FC said: "We would like to take the opportunity to thank Richard for his dedication and invaluable contribution" to the club."

Sheffield FC A grey haired man in a smart suit and tie stands infront of a large banner with the words '1857 Sheffield FC' written on themSheffield FC
Mr Tims said he could not share "the specifics" as to why he has stepped down from the role

They added: "His efforts have been instrumental in shaping the club into what it is today, and without his commitment, Sheffield FC would not be in the position it holds, with 168 years of continuous history."

Mr Tims said he wanted to "extend his sincere gratitude" to everyone who had supported the club through "highs and lows" over the years.

He said receiving the FIFA Order of Merit in 2004, meeting football legend Pele at the club's 150th anniversary and launching the Boots for Africa charity in 2010 were some of his personal highlights.

"What began as a modest project at a rented stadium playing in front of one man and a dog has grown into a globally-recognised brand," said Mr Tims.

Sheffield FC A light stone cladded two storey building surrounded by a neat wooden fenceSheffield FC
Sheffield FC have played behind the Coach and Horses in Dronfield since 2001

The club confirmed that director Jim Harrison had also departed from the board and thanked him for his "unwavering support" and "generous financial contributions".

He was described as playing a "pivotal role" in advancing the club's women's team.

Rob Hand, who has been with Sheffield FC for two years and owns Sheffield-based safety equipment supplier RSH Group, has become the new CEO at the club with immediate effect.

Manager Vill Powell and Assistant Manager Louis Axcell have extended their contracts until the end of the 2025/26 season.

Simon Thake A large grass field on a sunny day. A sign in the grass reads, 'Sheffield FC The Worlds's First Football Club'Simon Thake
Sheffield FC are hoping to move to a 5,000-seat stadium at Meadowhead in Sheffield

According to historical documents, Sheffield FC formed in 1857 - three years before their city rivals Hallam, who are believed to be the world's second-oldest football club and play their home games at the oldest recognised football ground in the world.

Sheffield FC currently sit at the bottom of the Northern Premier League East, facing the threat of relegation to the ninth tier of the English Football pyramid.

The club has submitted a planning application to Sheffield Council for a new 5,000 capacity stadium at Meadowhead in Sheffield to be shared with Sheffield Eagles Rugby League Club.

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