RAMSBOTTOM United FC have been rocked by a double resignation, just as things were showing signs of picking up on the field writes STEVE BOTT.

The Rams had plunged to bottom spot in the North West Counties Division One table before Tuesday night's 4-0 home win over fellow strugglers Warrington Town.

Now they have been hit by a double whammy off the field after secretary John Maher and commercial manager Graham Dobson resigned.

Maher stayed away from the Riverside earlier in the season after long-standing differences between himself and chairman Harry Williams resurfaced again.

Peace appeared to have been restored, but it transpired that it was merely the calm before the storm as another meeting aimed at resolving the matter ended in bitter acrimony.

"We had the meeting hoping to solve a few long-standing issues," said Maher, who has been the Rams' secretary and administrative strongman for the last eight years.

"I wrote a letter to the chairman, Harry Williams, at the start of the season stating some points that needed to be resolved.

"It is my view, and the view of most other people, that the way the club is run is very undemocratic," said Maher.

"At the meeting the club's vice-chairman, Geoff Lay, said it was time for people to put their cards on the table and I was making points about things that needed to be addressed which were nothing to do with the playing side of things.

"At this Harry turned round and said he couldn't work with me. I said he wouldn't have to and I left the meeting as I didn't feel there was any point in me staying any longer," said Maher.

"I have since heard that Graham Dobson, the commercial manager, has faxed in his resignation as well.

"I have nothing against the club. I am very, very sorry that this has happened, but I can't carry on working in an environment that I don't enjoy," added Maher.

Dobson confirmed his resignation and added: "I resigned in support of John. There were also personal reasons. It just became too much of a hassle."

Chairman Williams was contacted by the Bury Times, but declined to comment on the matter.