HELEN Byard has stepped down from her role as a director at Hereford FC, a year after being appointed onto the board.

Byard was responsible for HR, welfare and safeguarding as part of her role as director and was previously the club's welfare officer.

“I have very much enjoyed becoming part of the club over the last couple of years, but my professional work must take priority at this time,” Byard told the club’s website.

“I wish the chairman and the board every success in bringing the club through to the next season.”

The Hereford FC board comprises of four members appointed by the club’s benefactors and three Hereford United Supporters’ Trust (HND) nominated directors.

Byard was appointed by the benefactors, the other three are Rob Crawford, Paul Quarrell and Peter Churchus.

The HND nominated directors are Tony Taylor, Andrew Graham and a vacant position which HUST have put forward Joanie Roberts to fill.

Chairman Graham, understands and accepts Byard's reasons for leaving the board

“I cannot thank her enough for the dedication and considerable amount of hard work that she has undertaken to develop and imbed HR, welfare and safeguarding into all that we do at HFC,” Graham said in a statement on the club’s website.

“Helen has been an exceptional contributor to board matters in what has been a very difficult time on and off the pitch. Her professional role in the NHS cannot be underestimated.

“We have lost a formidable member of the board in Helen and we shall be deeply saddened to see her leave.”