THE RFL are delighted to announce that Mr. Bob Stott has been elected to the organisation's Main Board as a Non-Executive Director.

The vote was taken at today's Annual General Meeting of the Rugby League Council in Leeds.

Bob Stott takes over from Mr Tony Gartland who has decided to retire from the Board.

Commenting on the appointment, the RFL Executive Chairman Richard Lewis said: "We welcome Bob Stott as a Non-Executive Director of the RFL and we look forward to working alongside him.

"It is pleasing that somebody with Bob's tremendous experience and successful track record in business is joining us and we feel sure his time on the RFL Board will see further advancement and progress for the sport.

"We should also place on record our gratitude and appreciation for the excellent service that Tony Gartland has given to the RFL and the sport. He has contributed a great deal during his tenure and we know he continues to be a strong supporter of the RFL and the sport in general."

Bob Stott was appointed as Chief Executive of Wm Morrison Supermarkets Plc. in March 2005.

Prior to that he worked in various high profile positions within the Morrison's business.

Also at today's Council Meeting, Hunslet Hawks Chairman Grahame Liles has been elected as the new President of the RFL with Batley Bulldogs Chairman Kevin Nicholas elected as Vice President.

Richard Lewis added:" We congratulate both Grahame Liles and Kevin Nicholas on their appointments and we trust they enjoy their time in these roles".

Grahame Liles said: "I'm honoured by this appointment after being one of the longest serving directors in Rugby League.

"I've been involved with Rugby League all my life, having watched Wakefield since 1945. It truly is an honour to follow some of the great names in the past in this role."