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Dave Whelan steps down as Wigan chairman with 23-year-old grandson taking over
DAVE WHELAN has resigned as Wigan chairman, with his 23-year-old grandson David Sharpe replacing him with immediate effect.
Dave Whelan steps down as chairman of Wigan
The time has now come to hand over the reins
The 78-year-old, who bought the club 20 years ago, will continue to own the club but will no longer have a hands-on role.
Whelan said: “The time has now come to hand over the reins. I am approaching 80 years old and spend an increasingly long time abroad, and cannot make it to games.
"It is a decision I have been mulling over for some years and I believe David is now ready.
Thank you for the memories Mr Whelan! - http://t.co/9DRveB5QAM #wafc pic.twitter.com/TvD5uC3YcN
— Wigan Athletic (@LaticsOfficial) March 3, 2015
"Contrary to some suggestions, there are no plans to sell the club, which will remain in family hands and I have every confidence that David, along with Chief Executive Jonathan Jackson, will lead us forwards with wisdom.
"In making this announcement, I would like to say huge thank you to the Board of Directors, all the staff at the club, and of course the wonderful supporters of Wigan Athletic, who have helped make the journey over the past 20 years such an exciting and memorable one."
Wigan currently sit inside the Championship relegation zone and nine points adrift of safety.