CLUB NEWS | Malcolm James steps down from Dunston UTS Football Club committee
We can confirm that former Club Chairman, Mr Malcolm James, has stepped down from his role on the club's committee.
Malcolm has enjoyed countless successful years at Dunston UTS Football Club. He was Chairman when the club won The FA Vase at Wembley in 2012, and oversaw the club's promotion to the Northern Premier League following the 2018-19 season.
Malcolm made the decision to resign from his role as Chairman following the conclusion of the 2022-23 season, handing the reigns to Billy Irwin and Tony Cleugh. Malcolm remained on the club's committee however, he will now step down from his current role.
"I have stood down due to personal circumstances and personal issues. It has nothing to do with football or the football club. When I stood down as Chairman, it was because I felt that the time had come for the club to move forward with younger, more dynamic people at the helm. This time, it is purely for personal reasons." Malcolm said.
The former Chairman also spoke about the club's progression over recent years, both on and off the pitch.
"We may have fallen just short last season, but do not forget that we finished in our highest ever position in the non-league pyramid. Considering what the club had to endure last season playing only eleven league games at home, and 27 away, the whole club can look back with immense pride.
"Do not forget the circumstances in which we lost the play-off which was heartbreaking. Overall, the club has made great progress over recent years, and I would like to give my sincere thanks to Mr Shaun Sadler of UTS Engineering for his continuous sponsorship. With his support, we have developed the stadium and made progress on the field as far as the NPL.
"In the 12 months that Tony [Cleugh] and Billy [Irwin] have been in office, they have done a magnificent job. May I also include new Treasurer, Ian Hodgson, who took over from Frank, and longstanding Secretary Billy Montague.
"The 2023/24 season was a nightmare and the work these people and other club officials put in was incredible. They are forever looking to move the club forward, as can be seen in the improvements throughout the UTS Stadium." Malcolm added.
Throughout the many years that Malcolm has been involved with the club, he has witnessed a lot of joyful moments which he has discussed.
"I think that every management team at Dunston has brought many proud moments to the club, plus we have had some great teams bringing success. I think the proudest were winning the Northern League treble, League title, League Cup and J.R. Cleator Cup two seasons running in 2004 and 2005.
"The most exciting and proudest moment was of course Sunday 13th May 2012, winning the FA Vase at Wembley. The whole journey was a dream and a reward for the whole club who gave their all."
Malcolm would like to give one final message to all supporters, and everyone associated with Dunston UTS Football Club.
"At present, the club is in the best hands ever, both on and off the field. Everyone is dedicated to Dunston UTS Football Club. My one wish is that we could attract more support. Almost everything that has been done to improve the UTS Stadium, on and off the field, has been done with the spectators in mind.
"Finally, may I thank the many companies and individuals who have sponsored the club for many years with a special thank you to our main club sponsor and friend, Mr Shaun Sadler, of UTS Engineering. Shaun has sponsored the club since 2010 and his support has been a major factor in the progress and success of our great club."
Dunston UTS FC Co-Chairman, Tony Cleugh, has also commented on the departure of Malcolm James stepping down from his role:
"Billy [Irwin] and I wish him well and good luck for the future. The club would not be where it is without him and we can't thank him enough for the endless hours of work he has put in over the years. He will always be welcome at the UTS Stadium and we look forward to seeing him."
Everyone at Dunston UTS Football Club would like to thank Mr Malcolm James for his many years of dedication and selfless service to the club. A club legend.