The long standing chairman of Lowestoft Town FC, Gary Keyzor, is set to take on a lesser role at the club due to business and family commitments.

Mr Keyzor is stepping down after 15 years at the helm - just weeks after The Trawlerboys sealed a return to step 3 football.

With Lowestoft promoted to the Southern League Premier Central division for next season, Mr Keyzor's departure comes at a time where the club has proactively looked to develop its long term strategy.

Jamie Godbold was recently unveiled as the club's first ever Head of Football - a newly combined role as he continues to manage the first team - on the back of the progression of the Centre of Excellence and Scholarship programmes and league title winning seasons for both the first team and reserves.

A club spokesman said: "The board continues to progress its work with an excellent management team, coaching staff, players, volunteers and fans as it looks to enhance the overall development of the club, with some exciting times ahead and further announcements to be made during the next season regarding its long term ambitions."

At an extraordinary board meeting, Mr Keyzor was thanked by the board "for his outstanding contribution and commitment to the club".

The board expressed delight that Mr Keyzor is intending to remain as a board member and contribute to the operation - albeit in a smaller capacity - whilst remaining its principal sponsor.

Board member Colin Easton was nominated and unanimously appointed to the the role of chairman on the understanding this would be for an interim period.

Mr Easton has been a club supporter for more than 20 years and on the board for seven years as he brings a wide range of knowledge and expertise to the role.

Mr Keyzor will support Mr Easton and the board for this period of transition as he continues as a board member.

The board will make a decision regarding the long term replacement and other resource requirements later in the season.

Praising Mr Keyzor's time at the helm of the club, Mr Easton said: "Whilst we are confident that we have the skills and ability to manage the club, Gary’s contribution should not be underestimated.

"Therefore it's a relief that Gary will be supporting me to steer the ship and on hand to advise, albeit in a lesser capacity, while he has a well earned rest and concentrates on his business and family."