Jim Mann to stand down as Kilmarnock chairman

Kilmarnock chairman Jim Mann has announced he is standing down from the Rugby Park boardroom.

The Milton Keynes-based businessman - who took on the role after replacing unpopular predecessor Michael Johnston last year - admitted his decision has been forced on him by recent health problems.

Killie hope to appoint Mann's successor before he relinquishes his directorship at the club's annual general meeting on April 26.

In a statement, the 69-year-old said: "It is with considerable regret that I have to announce my decision to stand down as chairman of Kilmarnock Football Club at the forthcoming AGM. I will also retire as a director from that date.

"Having been born and bred in Kilmarnock but having spent most of my career working in England, it was a dream come true to be appointed chairman of the club I have supported throughout my life last March. So this has not been an easy decision for me to reach, particularly at this difficult stage of the season with the club in a precarious league position.

"I am now 69 and have suffered some health issues in recent months which have made the task of combining my duties as chairman with other business and personal interests while living in Milton Keynes unsustainable.

"There is no reason other than that for my decision to stand down and I hope that the club's shareholders and supporters will give their full support to the board of directors as it embarks upon the process of appointing a new chairman while steering the club away from relegation.

"I wish manager Lee Clark, his backroom staff and the players the best of luck in the weeks ahead. Everyone at the club is fully focussed on the task at hand and determined to succeed.

"I have enjoyed working with the club's directors and staff, from all of whom I have received full support and unstinting loyalty. I leave the club in good hands."

Kilmarnock currently sit 11th in the Premiership and face the prospect of a relegation play-off unless they can overcome the four-point gap separating them from nearest rivals Hamilton.