SALISBURY FC chairman David Phillips has stepped down from the position with immediate effect.

Phillips, who remains a club director, had been chairman since the Whites reformed as Salisbury FC back in 2014.

A statement released by the club read: “Following a board meeting this afternoon it has been agreed that the club would no longer have a director acting as chairman.

“David Phillips has accordingly stepped down from the role with immediate effect.”

Fans took to social media today following news of Phillips’ departure to show their support.

Peter Morgan posted on the Salisbury FC Facebook supporters' page: “Don’t think people know how much Dave does for the club, players and supporters, the single most important person at the club. Bad day for Salisbury FC.”

Dave Todd added: “Bad times, a hard-working genuine and honest guy with the long-term future of the club at heart. I fear for the long-term now.”

Phillips had planned to retire back in 2009 after a successful 27 years running an insurance brokers business, but said last August that he had no regrets about helping a football club return to the city.

Following his first year as Salisbury FC chairman he said: “I cannot say it was the most enjoyable year, it has intruded into my personal life at times.”

When asked for a comment about his departure today (Thursday), Phillips said: “Suggest you refer your enquiry back to the club.”

Steve Claridge's Salisbury finished runners-up in the Southern One South & West but missed out on promotion when beaten by Tiverton Town in the play-off final.