THE FORMER president of the Football Association of Wales (FAW) has announced his resignation.

Steve Williams, from Wrexham, has confirmed that he is leaving the association after spending 37 years within it in different roles.

Last month, Mr Williams was suspended from his role as president pending an investigation.

No reason for the action was given but the FAW, when contacted by the PA news agency, acknowledged that a case was ongoing.

Mr Williams, who was elected president in 2021 and had one year left to serve on his term, was involved in the decision to end Rob Page’s tenure as Wales manager before Craig Bellamy was eventually appointed new Cymru boss.

Mr Williams has now stepped down before an independent hearing takes place.

Announcing his resignation, the 60-year-old said: "It's with a heavy heart that I announce my resignation from the FAW."

He added: "Over the last 37 years I have met some wonderful people and gained lots of life long friends. My thanks go to each and every one of you who work for the good of the game."

In a statement, the Football Association of Wales added: "After further discussion between the parties, Mr Stephen Williams has decided to resign from all of his roles at the FAW.

"The FAW acknowledges the hard work and support provided by Mr Stephen Williams as a football fan and President to Welsh football and its development, both domestically and on an international stage over the last 37 years."

Raised in the Wrexham area, Mr Williams took over the helm of the FAW at a time of progress for the Welsh game back in 2021, with the national team having participated in two successive UEFA EURO final tournaments.

In his professional career, Williams worked his way up to a senior manager’s position in the aerospace industry.

A member of the FAW Council since 1997, and a former chairman of the association’s international committee, he has channelled his love of football into a variety of roles, earning particular respect for his dedication to the domestic game.

He was also instrumental in the development and construction of the FAW’s Colliers Park training and development centre near Wrexham.