London Welsh chairman steps down

Following its successful appearance in the High Court yesterday and the adjournment for a number of weeks of the petition for it to be wound up, London Welsh RFC today confirms that its Chairman, Bleddyn Phillips, will step down from that role with immediate effect.
Phillips said: “It has been a great honour and privilege to serve as Chairman of London Welsh RFC these past five years. The Club has experienced the highs of winning the Championship twice and of being promoted to the Premiership – against all odds. It has had to fight against the inequality of funding in the Premiership – which it did so successfully – and of ensuring it gained promotion for the first time notwithstanding arguments that it failed to satisfy Minimum Standards Criteria – palpably anti-competitive.
“It has also lifted the British and Irish Cup and has ensured a successful career for many of its former players in Premiership clubs and elsewhere, again as a direct result of the profile and experience gained from playing in top flight rugby.
“To have achieved all this is a tremendous testament not only to the players, coaching and medical staff who take care of our playing needs, but to all those who have helped us on our journey these past few years – from the match day stewards and office staff, to our kit and other support staff – and of course especially our very loyal supporters who have maintained their faith and belief in the club through all the challenges and opportunities we have faced together in recent times. To all I say a very big Thank You – Diolch yn Fawr.
“The time has now come however to pass the baton on. Much as I would have wished to continue, it has been made clear to me that it will only be possible to pursue certain opportunities if I elect to stand down as Chairman and, in the best interests of the Club – as I have always sought to act – I am prepared so to do.
“That said, I wish this great club all the very best for the future and to all its staff, players and supporters may I thank you for all the encouragement and goodwill you have shown to me and London Welsh these past five years. Gwerthfawrogaf eich cefnogaeth yn ystod y bum mlynedd ddiwethaf i mi yn bersonol ac hefyd i’r Clwb. Pob bendith.”