Ray Trew has announced his decision to step down as chairman of Notts County FC in an open letter to supporters, announcing his decision to put the club up for sale...
“It is with very mixed emotions that I announce the end of my tenure as Chairman of Notts County Football Club, as I put the club up for sale, having reevaluated my position in light of recent events.I must start by stressing that this is not me backing away from a challenge, I do not do that and, indeed, if I'd have wanted to I would have done so some time ago because it has been a difficult journey at times.
However, when my family are subjected to kind of foul, mindless abuse that they have been in recent days, both in person and courtesy of the oh so brave keyboard warriors, regardless of whether this is just the minority ruining it for the larger supporter base, I have to make changes.
That said, whilst I have a somewhat bad taste in my mouth from the vitriol spouted by some, I do not walk away lingering on any negativity but instead will take with me the many happy memories that I have accrued from my time at Meadow Lane.
The promotion winning season that kicked everything off of course, that amazing trip to Juventus, cup games against the likes of Manchester City, Liverpool and Sunderland, our fantastic gala banquet and the pioneering Bench initiative are just some that stand out from my six years at Notts and each holds a special place in my memory that can never be tarnished.
As I walk around the ground I am filled with an enormous sense of pride in how much was done, with the Meadow Lane Sports Bar, Wheeler's Suite, Masson Suite, Board Room, main reception and the home dressing room, the before and after pics would make for pleasant viewing I feel.
I've never asked for praise though, just understanding. I never claimed to have got everything right and I've not always made easy decisions, but every decision I have made has been with the best intentions of this club at the forefront of my mind.
I would like to thank all those that have worked for the club in any capacity during my time at Notts, we've had some truly outstanding staff at the club over the years, many of whom have gone unrecognised for their efforts, but all of whom gave their all to help the club progress.
So as I say my final goodbye, I would like to thank the core of true fans who have pulled together to back this great club and give their all in trying to move us forwards, your support has always been appreciated and will be the overriding memory for me because my family and I have made some very good friends amongst the supporter base.
As Notts County prepares for the next chapter in its long and illustrious career, I wish them nothing but luck and hope that from here on it is all onwards and upwards.
Ray Trew.”