BRIAN BARWICK will stand down as chairman of the National League at the end of the 2020/21 season.

The decision comes amid calls for a vote of no confidence in the league's chairman and board.

Clubs have expressed displeasure at how the league handled problems presented by the coronavirus pandemic, such as that of funding and the vote on resolutions, which ultimately ended the season at Step 2.

Monday was the deadline for clubs to back the no-confidence vote call, to which York City were not expected to add their support.

Further updates are expected tomorrow.

“I think it is the right time to relinquish the role and give somebody else the great privilege of leading the organisation," said Barwick, who was awarded an OBE in the New Year Honours List for services to sport and broadcasting.

“Since 2015, I believe the competition has continued to grow in stature and profile, sent strong clubs up into the EFL and built up a formidable and loyal set of commercial and broadcast partnerships.

“Our 66 clubs remain the life-blood of our competition and a vital part of their local communities - and that’s what makes our league so special.

“I also acknowledge just how tough it has been for many of our clubs over the past 12 months facing the unprecedented challenges brought on by the Covid pandemic.

“In closing, I would like to thank my National League board colleagues, the league’s executive, our commercial partners, the wider football family and, most importantly, our member clubs for their warm welcomes and support over the past six years.

“I will continue to commit myself to the well-being of the National League until the end of the season.

“And, of course, I wish my successor as chair and everybody connected with the National League my very best wishes for a brilliant future.”