Walter Tann and Julie Clarke standing down from Hornets board

Walter Tann and Julie Clarke

Vice Chairman Walter Tann and Heritage lead Julie Clarke are to step down from the Rochdale Hornets board.

Julie Clarke, who was part of the original steering that brought the club out of administration in 2009, has notified the board of her intentions to not seek re-election in September.

Club President Paul Ormerod led the praise saying: "Julie has been here from day one and has meticulously kept the minutes and records of board meetings and recently took the lead on the clubs heritage committee.

"She was a vital part of the board that brought us out of a turbulent time in our history and we thank her greatly for her service."

Ms Clarke, who has recently retired from her post as Assistant Head Teacher at Falinge Park High School, also volunteers as the club's PA announcer on match days and will continue in this role when available.

Stepping down with immediate effect is Vice Chairman and Player Welfare Manager Walter Tann.

Mr Tann has served the club board from very early on in the member owned era and his expertise and guidance on the clubs medical and welfare operations have ensured that the club is held in the very best regard throughout the game.

Hornets President Paul Ormerod said: "Walter stepped in as vice chairman a few years ago and his input on the running of the club has been huge.

"He always put himself forward to volunteer on promotional events and ensured the players were well looked after, despite his demanding job as a leading medical professional and his other personal commitments as a school governor, church warden and political campaigner.

"I would like to place on record our thanks for his service on behalf of the board and membership."

The role of Player Welfare Manager will be taken on in the short term by current assistant coach Dave Ramsbottom, who will also be co-opted onto the board with immediate effect until the time of the next election.

First brought into the coaching set up by John Stankevitch, 'Ramsbottom has also worked under Ian Talbot and now Alan Kilshaw and has a wealth of experience in dealing with player welfare issues.

A member since 2009, Ramsbottom was formerly a player with Spotland Rangers and still plays for Rochdale Cobras as well as supporting his wife and daughter who play for the Hornets ladies team.

Hornets Chairman Mark Wynn said: "I have known David for over 30 years and he will be perfect in this role. He will step in now and fulfill the duties that need doing and he can stand at the next election if he feels the role is right for him going forward.

"Walter and Julie have been fantastic servants to the club over the last seven years and I thank them for the part they have played in getting the club to where it is today.

"It is an exciting time for the club as we look to kick on to the next level and we look forward to seeing who will step forward to join the board and help drive the club to the next level."

Anyone who wishes to join the board of member owned Rochdale Hornets should contact CEO Ryan Bradley in the first instance ryan.bradley@hornetsrugbyleague.com

The next elections are planned for September but it is understood the board will consider making immediate appointments to fulfil certain functions.