Macclesfield FC director resigns following suspension

The director of Macclesfield FC has resigned two months after he was suspended following his arrest.

Local businessman Rob Smethhurst stepped in to buy the defunct Macclesfield Town in 2020, and oversaw the club's rise from the ninth tier of English football to the National League.

The journey reached its pinnacle when the Silkmen defeated FA Cup holders Crystal Palace in what was the greatest upset in the competition's history.

Smethhurst's departure comes after he was suspended after his arrest in May on suspicion of a coercive control offence. In a statement, Macclesfield FC said he had "other personal interests" away from the club but remained a shareholder. Smethurst declined to comment.

Smethurst has openly spoken of how founding the football club "saved his life" from addiction.

His role at the club was key to "rebuilding his life", as was his partnership with long-term friend Robbie Savage.

The club said: "With the consent of Robert Smethurst, Macclesfield FC can confirm that Rob has formally decided to resign as a director.

"We respect the fact that Rob has other personal interests away from the football club, and by accepting his resignation, he is able to spend more time pursuing these."

It added: "The club wishes to clarify that while Rob steps down from his day-to-day governance on the board of directors, he will remain a shareholder.

"In this capacity, we look forward to Rob's continued backing as we get ready for an exciting new season ahead."

In June, he was suspended following his arrest in Wilmslow, Cheshire, on 19 May on suspicion of a coercive control offence.

He was bailed pending further inquiries, Cheshire Constabulary said.

At the time, he dismissed the allegations against him as "an absolute load of rubbish".

The club said in June that it was "aware of reports circulating" and Smethurst had "temporarily been relieved of all duties associated with the club while legal guidance is sought".

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