Former Blues chairman David Sheepshanks has confirmed that he is standing down from the Town, FA and Football League boards in the summer to concentrate on his role as chairman of St George’s Park, the FA’s National Football Centre at Burton. Sheepshanks was appointed to that role in November 2008 and with construction work having begun in January his continued appointment was approved earlier today.
Sheepshanks, who will also retain his position as chairman of FA Learning, said: "I have decided to stand down in June from The FA, Football League and Ipswich Town boards to allow me to devote more time to chairing St George's Park.
"This will free up a considerable amount of time and with construction under way, there is an enormous amount to be done over the next year to prepare for operational readiness.
"A coach education and training hub for English football and other sports, St George's Park will benefit the entire pyramid of the game from grassroots to elite, as well as the local community.”
Chief executive Simon Clegg paid tribute to Sheepshanks's time on the Town board: "David has been a loyal servant of Ipswich Town Football Club for many years.
"He has made a massive contribution to the club, provided strong leadership during the highs of promotion to the Premier League and UEFA Cup football, as well as the challenges in guiding the club through administration.
"He was responsible for heading the search for a suitable owner and deserves much credit for securing Marcus Evans's ownership and ongoing investment.
"I am personally grateful to David for his candid support and encouragement along with his words of advice and wisdom.
"The club will now find a suitable way of recognising his great support and contribution to Ipswich Town Football Club over many decades, and we are delighted that he will continue to provide his expertise in two critical components of English football."
Sheepshanks stepped down as Town chairman in May 2009 after 14 years but remained on the board he joined in 1987. He will continue to chair the PLC which owns 12.5% of the club and the ITFC Charitable Trust.