ROB Gorski is looking for external investors who will put money into Stalybridge Celtic after deciding to step down because of ill health.
The Bower Fold chairman is leaving and will sell his stake, more than 88,000 shares, if a suitable buyer can be found.
And Mr Gorski admits that is likely to come from outside the club, although he would ideally like to hand them to supporters or the Stalybridge community.
He said: “Some of you may have realised that I have not been able to attend matches over the past couple of months.
“After a number of scans and tests, it was with the heaviest of hearts that I informed the board that due to ill health, I need to step down from my role of chairman with immediate effect.
“I intend to now dispose of my shares as soon as possible.
“In an ideal world, I would love for the fans and/or local community to pick up the baton. However, I shall explore external interest to ensure we find the optimal solution to drive Celtic forward.”
Mr Gorski, 61, first linked up with Celtic in August 2001, but last September, he warned the cub’s future may be under threat if crowds do not increase.
He said: “My main concern is, and without being melodramatic, this club will close if we are left the crowds of 180 and fans won’t help.
“We budget for a certain number of fans so if they walk away, we won’t have the finance to invest in the future and further improve our squad.
“I would implore fans to return in their droves because they are the key to the football club’s future success.”
Attendances for Northern Premier League matches hover about the 350 mark, although more than 1,000 were at the match against FC United of Manchester.
Fewer than 300, though, went to the midweek fixture with Marske United.
Andrew Seddon and Peter Taylor joined Celtic’s 10-man board in June and Mr Gorski insisted the backing is vital for Chris Willcock’s side.
He added: “Personally, after more than 20 years, I was genuinely heartbroken to step down, however, I need to now take care of myself.
“I would ask the fans to get behind Chris and the whole club. I wish the gaffer, the players, the directors, volunteers and the fans the very best of luck for the future.”
Celtic face league leaders South Shields at Bower Fold on Saturday (December 10) with the match kicking off at 1pm to avoid any clash with England’s World Cup quarter final with France.
The club said: “The decision came after discussions between both clubs and the Northern Premier League.”
I wish Mr Gorski well and hope his health improves.
I think we need to correct some of the inaccuracies stated in the article. I don’t understand where this figure of Celtics attendance being 180 when Celtic s own website states the average to be 417. Being one of those who attends all home matches and many away games I can’t believe a team in the bottom three has such fantastic support . Maybe as Mr Gorski states he hasn’t been to many games over the last season, he hasn’t realised just how loyal Celtics supporters have been.