Ray Trew to sell Notts County after quitting as chairman
Thursday 25 February 2016 15:34, UK
Ray Trew has stepped down from his position as chairman of Notts County after announcing his intention to sell the League 2 club.
In an open letter to supporters on the club's official website, Trew, who has held the post at Meadow Lane for six years, blamed the recent 'foul and mindless abuse' suffered by his family for his decision.
"It is with very mixed emotions I announce the end of my tenure as chairman of Notts County Football Club, as I put the club up for sale, having re-evaluated my position in light of recent events," he said.
"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 the 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."
Trew, who has criticised County supporters in the past for not turning out in their numbers over the years, ends his letter by praising those who have backed the club during his tenure.
"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."
Click here to read the letter in full...
Notts County are currently 16th in the table, 11 points off a play-off place.
