FORMER Hereford chairman Andrew Graham has stepped down from his role on the Bulls board of directors.

Graham joined the club's board three years ago as a Hereford United Supporters' Trust nominated director.

The club state that Graham 'has been instrumental in setting standards, steering the club towards financial stability, and spearheading the discussions with the National League for the funding to continue the current season'.

Graham said he has stepped down from his position on health grounds.

"I have made no secret of the fact that I suffer with CPTSD (complex post-traumatic stress disorder) and have done for many years," said Graham in a statement.

"I found myself in an impossible position where negative outside influences were collectively causing some ‘triggers’ to be pulled and standing aside is the more favourable coping mechanism I chose.

"As the board had enough to cope with regarding the ongoing Covid-19 directives and requirements, the transition of club secretaries, the farcical situation that I have been speaking about for many months with the lack of clarity, transparency (and seemingly strategy) at National League level for either funding or continuation of the season in whatever format, I offered to withhold my announcement of resignation, until such time as some stability had returned, and will be remaining as Covid-19 officer, on a volunteer basis, to ensure that the club is not exposed with compliance in that regard.

"I am extremely saddened to have made this move prior to the end of the season, although am relieved that the club operates sustainably, after much pain, has a robust infrastructure and highly professional footballing side.

"I am very proud to have been there at the start of Josh Gowling's managerial career also.

"Under the guidance of Steve Burr, he will undoubtedly continue to deliver for Hereford FC managerially, and with fan engagement.

"Josh, Steve and the team have taken matters to a new high in that regard.

"I am also very proud to have helped to steer the club through an exceptionally challenging period on and off the pitch, Covid-19 included!

"We have a great, cohesive, and professional squad, we have the best National League managerial team in my opinion, incredible army of volunteers, committed and motivated staff, a respected financial director, for what is now a sustainable club, driven forward by an exceptional chairman in Rob Crawford, who, together with Nigel Edmondson, has been fundamental in helping to turn this club around behind the scenes, day in and day out!

"With our unrivalled and passionate supporters, this club can only succeed."

Graham will continue 'spearheading' a group of clubs, including Hereford, who are challenging the league on the allocation of National Lottery money which was given out to cover the first half of the season.

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Hereford were one of five National North/South clubs to receive a £36,000 share a month alongside Chester, Dulwich Hamlet, Maidstone and York.

The remaining clubs in the National League North and South received £30,000.

National League clubs received significantly more with Chesterfield, Hartlepool, Notts County, Stockport, Torquay, Wrexham and Yeovil received£95,000 a month, with the 16 other clubs received £84,000.

"Football at our level is in a delicate position," added Graham.

"I shall be continuing the challenge I have been spearheading for a number of clubs to correct what I see as an injustice of funding by the National League.

"This challenge will not be as a representative of the club, but with the intention of benefitting it.

"For me - I shall enjoy standing with some of my friends again, home and away.

"I shall volunteer to support in whatever role or function I can, and I shall spend a lot more personal time focussing on my charitable causes and business.

"Please continue to get behind this great club, it is in a very healthy position all things considered, and those who work for it, volunteer for it and stand at the helm, are worthily deserving of your support."

Bulls chairman, Rob Crawford said: “We would like to personally thank Andrew for his dedication, commitment and support during these unprecedented times for the club.

"He has continued to work tirelessly to the detriment of his health, but this isn’t sustainable, he must put himself and family first.

"We are extremely pleased that he has agreed to remain as our Covid-19 officer in a volunteer capacity.”