Byem bye Fash! (From Barry And District News)

Byem bye Fash!

HE CAME, he saw, and he left to concentrate on his showbiz career.

After much media speculation John Fashanu stepped down as chairman of Barry Town Football Club to concentrate on his pressing media commitments.

The decision, made last Friday, followed sensational match-rigging allegations in the News of the World.

Fash, who has spent just eight months in the job, insisted his decision has not left the Dragons high and dry. And he claimed his departure had nothing to do with his current predicament.

Fash, due to host a show for ITV in the autumn, said: "I love the club and its people and will keep promoting it to the best of my ability.

"Stepping down as chairman is only a temporary measure for the next six months or so. It's been a hard decision, but I will keep in close contact with them.

"It's nothing to do with the allegations, that's in the hands of the police."

Supporting Fash, chairman of Barry Town supporters' club, Tim Jones, claimed he had been 'a good influence' who had brought the club lots of publicity.

But some club insiders, who did not want to be named, were not so enamoured of his efforts.

One said: "Barry Town is the cheapest way you can get into Europe and one day you'll get that lucky break when you play someone like Celtic and make a lot of money.

Dr Richard Stott has agreed to take over as acting chairman.

Meanwhile, chief executive Kevin Green, himself the subject of much speculation regarding his position, said: "We welcome the appointment of such a well-known local figure as Dr Stott."

Mr Green thanked Mr Fashanu for his input and said he looked forward to his continuing support.