Sexstone to step down from Bristol City

Colin Sexstone is to step down as chairman of Bristol City Football club. The Bristolian, who is 63, says his role is no longer needed.

The new Board of Directors has settled in extremely well over the last 12 months and it is now clear that a full-time Executive Chairman is not required. After 16 and a half years working full time in professional sport, I will take this opportunity to explore new and different career paths, including working with my son in his Sports Business.

Sexstone is committed to sport in the region with a long career in cricket before he turned his attentions to football. He was Chief Executive at Gloucestershire County Cricket Club before he moved to Bristol City in 2001. He took over as Chairman at Ashton Gate from Steve Lansdown, the club's majority shareholder, a year ago.

Colin can look back at his time with Bristol City with pride.

To be stepping down as the club is entering its sixth consecutive season in the Championship is a great legacy, and I would personally like to thank him for all his hard work over the last 11 and a half years, in particular the blood, sweat and tears he has put into the new stadium project.

In his time at Bristol City, Colin Sexstone has been passionate about fighting for a new stadium for the club at Ashton Vale, a battle which is still going on.

It has been a huge pleasure and privilege to work for Bristol City FC over the last 11 and a half years and I wish the club every success in the future, especially regarding the new stadium at Ashton Vale in which I have been so deeply involved.

I will of course, continue to support and help the club in any way possible.

Chris Spittles caught up with Mr Sexstone at Ashton Gate earlier today and asked him about his decision to quit.

?He will be succeeded as chairman by the current vice chairman, Keith Dawe. To follow the fortunes of Bristol City, click here