Morpeth Town chairman Ken Beattie set to step back from day-to-day role due to 'serious health issues'

Morpeth Town have confirmed that Chairman Ken Beattie will step away from the day-to-day running of the club as he continues his recovery from “serious health issues”.

In a statement, the NPL East outfit announced that the Craik Park chief “remains fully committed to Morpeth Town and its future, and will continue in his role as Chairman”, adding that it is “only right that his health takes priority at this time”.

Elsewhere, Morpeth have also confirmed that manager Craig Lynch and assistant James Armstrong have both committed their futures to the club by signing new three-and-a-half year contracts - doing so on reduced terms in a clear demonstration of their commitment to the project at Craik Park.

Addressing both pieces of news, Lynch said: “It’s been a difficult week for everyone at the club. Telling the players on Thursday was one of the toughest things we’ve had to do as a management team, made even harder by the outstanding group of players and people we have.

“I’d also like to thank Ken for the trust and faith he has shown in me. I firmly believe in this football club, its people, and its future. We need everyone, our supporters, and the wider town, to stick together in the months ahead. If we do that, I have no doubt we’ll come through this stronger and continue building a bright future for Morpeth Town”.

Beattie himself said: “Craig and James have been so committed to the club and both are so knowledgeable. Craig has recently reached his 250th game as manager of the club, yet he’s only 34.

“In my view, they’ll both go on to great success, and hopefully that will be here at Morpeth Town. I’m absolutely delighted that they’ve agreed to stay on.”

He added: “I’m really grateful to Steven [Shaw, Football Operations Manager] and David [Robertson, General Operations Manager], who have run the club superbly on a daily basis for the last few years and have been able to take the pressure off me.

“I sincerely apologise to everyone I haven’t been able to reply to. When I’m feeling stronger, I will do my best to get back to you. From the bottom of my heart, I want to thank everyone who has reached out to me and my family. Your kindness and support have meant more than words can express, and I am eternally grateful.

“To our supporters, thank you for your messages and encouragement. They are truly appreciated. I know you’ll continue to stand by both me and the club during this time, and for that I cannot thank you enough”.