"Recent events at Rodney Parade have forced me to consider my future here with The Newport Gwent Dragons and Newport RFC. While still retaining a wish to play a role in driving the Region forward, I feel I have to look after the best interests of my family and I. I have therefore decided to resign as Chief Executive of The Dragons, Newport RFC and its holding company Rodney Parade Ltd.

"My family and I have had a tremendous six years with firstly Newport and then The Dragons and living in South Wales. However, I now feel that the time is right to return to South Africa and look to explore other opportunities hopefully within rugby.

"I would wish to thank the players, Directors, staff, supporters and sponsors who have supported me throughout my time here and especially in my last year as CEO. A special thanks also goes to Tony Brown who facilitated my move to Newport in the first place.

"While the transition to Regionalisation has not always been smooth, the Region has finished third and fourth respectively in the last two seasons while last year Newport RFC won the Premiership and this year look to finish second. I sincerely hope by putting financial and procedural policies in place and presenting a balanced budget for the 2005/06 season, that who ever takes over will with the present Directors, players and staff continue to be able to take the Region and Club forward. I wish them and both teams at Rodney Parade every success for the future."