Hamilton Academical chairman Ronnie MacDonald has announced he is resigning from his position at the First Division club with immediate effect.

Vice chairman Les Gray will take on the reigns from MacDonald, who was chairman of the club for nine years.

MacDonald managed Maryhill Juniors and spent a year at Clyde Football Club before moving to Hamilton Accies and handing over £10,000 to stop the club going into liquidation.

In a statement posted on the Accies FC website MacDonald said: “We are at a time in the season when decisions must be taken for the next and it is essential that the new board have the opportunity to do so.

“I am delighted for Les who has been instrumental in creating and developing our Youth Academy and has always given me unstinting support.

When taking control at Accies nine years ago my only stated objective was to leave the Club and the stadium in a healthier condition than I found it. With the help of many people this, I believe, has been achieved, and I would like to thank them all for their efforts.”

During his term the club moved from division to division and produced premiership players such as James McCarthy and James McArthur through its youth academy.

Allan McGonigal and Allan Maitland were appointed as directors of the club in March.

He said: “I must make special mention of Billy Reid for his achievements in developing players and giving the Club our most successful era of league performances, just a pity we couldn't have stayed top of the Premier League.

“In conclusion I wish the club continued success in enhancing its position as an essential part of the community of South Lanarkshire.”