A BOARD member who wanted fans to fold Northwich Victoria Supporters' Trust has withdrawn his proposal.

John Gleave has also resigned from the board as of yesterday, Tuesday.

He told the Guardian he had been upset at comments made about him on the trust's website message board.

He said: "When people start making personal attacks on you then I think it's time to ask what is the point?"

"I have my own health to worry about, I can do without the hassle."

It is believed individual fans had questioned Gleave's perceived support of club chairman Mike Connett.

Gleave declined to go into the reasons behind his change of heart, saying only there was a 'long list' of factors.

Earlier this month he said the trust was being wrecked by red tape.

"I still stand by that view," he said yesterday, adding that he would like to see fans set up a supporters' association instead.

Vote

Members had been due to vote on their future at their annual meeting tomorrow, but now that will not happen.

Instead, trust chairman Paul Stockton said the members could get on with the task of appointing a new board for the next 12 months.

"I hope we can go forward and the trust can develop its support for Northwich Victoria in both the short and long term," he said.

Members will review the past year, which Mr Stockton admits has been a testing one.

They have been split over whether to support the three Vics fans banned from attending matches at the Victoria Stadium last season.

Estimates say the £10 monthly subscriptions have fallen by up to 30 per cent since members voted not to continue backing the 'VS3', as they have become known.

"We've also made a positive contribution to the club," said Stockton.

He listed the distribution of free tickets to primary school pupils, producing the match day programme and organising away travel for supporters as achievements to be proud of.

Stockton also paid tribute to Gleave.

He said: "I would like to publicly thank John for all his work on behalf of the trust during the past two years.

"He will always be remembered as a founder member and our first chairman."

The annual meeting takes place tomorrow, Thursday, at the Floatel from 7.45pm.

Meanwhile, the Vics players report back for pre-season training this Saturday.

Boss Steve Burr will welcome his four new signings, Gareth Griffiths, Kevin Townson, Tony Gallimore and Ryan Brown to the Victoria Stadium.

He will also find out who his team will face when the season kicks off on August 12 as the Conference fixture list is due out on Monday.

Vics' first friendly is on July10.