The Directors of the Preston North End can confirm that Maurice Lindsay has been appointed as a director, and Chairman, of the Company with immediate effect.

Derek Shaw has stepped down as Chairman of the Company, but remains a director of Preston North End.

Mr Shaw has volunteered to step down to assist the Club in its plans to restructure following the share purchase by Deepdale PNE Holding Limited.

Shaw, who has been Preston's permanent chairman since August 2002 said: "I have been a PNE supporter all my life and will remain so. My decision to step down as chairman is taken in the best interest of the Club.

"As everyone knows, the Club has been through a difficult time recently. It has benefited from the financial support of Mr Trevor Hemmings."

New chairman will be Maurice Lindsay was a director of Wigan Athletic which is a position he has now stepped down from.

Maurice said: "I am delighted to be joining PNE as chairman. Everyone in football knows the history and tradition of PNE. I myself grew up in an age when the names Preston and Tom Finney were synonymous with success.

"Like everyone else in the game, I want to see PNE's image restored to the highest possible level. I have to say that it is also with some regret and fond memories that I am leaving Wigan Athletic.

"David Whelan is a lifelong friend and I have enjoyed many exciting times in both football and rugby. I spoke to David about PNE and he is also keen to lend a hand to a Club he admires.

"David and I are also friends of Mr Hemmings, whom we both admire and respect. I am aware of the efforts that Mr Hemmings has made to support PNE in these difficult times and I intend to give him all the support I can.

"I am also aware of the tremendous hard work that has been put in by Derek Shaw. Derek is an honourable man and I am sure that he will remain close to the Club in the future."