Jim Holder is stepping down as chairman of Halstead Town Football Club after more than a decade in the role at Rosemary Lane.

Holder said he would still be involved in “all aspects of the club” but has decided that he can’t commit to the position of chairman on a formal basis any more.

He has been chairman for 12 years and will also give up his position as Halstead’s first-team assistant manager.

Holder said the reasons for his decision were over his health and his desire to spend more time with his family, but insisted that he wouldn’t be cutting his ties with Rosemary Lane.

In a statement on the club website, Holder said: “It is with great regret that I have to announce my resignation as both chairman and assistant first team manager.

“There have been several occasions recently when I have been unable to complete some tasks as well as I would like because of non-threatening but ongoing health problems.

“I am also keen to spend more time with my wife Linda, who has allowed me to make football at the centre of our lives for nearly 50 years.

“I would like to thank all members of our business and football committees and the players and football management teams for their ongoing efforts to push the club forward.

“I have been chairman for 12 years and have found the newfound enthusiasm both on and off the pitch to be inspiring and believe the club is set to be successful.

“It is therefore the right time to let these younger people drive the club forward.

“I don't intend to disappear and will retain my interest in all aspects of the club and wish everyone involved an enjoyable and successful future at Halstead Town Football Club.”

Halstead's first-team are without a Thurlow Nunn League division one match this weekend and their next action will come at Saffron Walden Town in the League Cup on Tuesday.