Former Aberdeen FC chairman Stewart Milne is stepping down from the club's board after more than three decades of service.
The Aberdeenshire businessman and lifelong Dons supporter joined the board of directors on June 14, 1994, before becoming vice-chairman in 1997 and chairman a year later.
Milne led the club for 21 years before handing over the chairman's role to major shareholder Dave Cormack in December 2019. He has continued to serve as a non-executive director since then.
Announcing his departure, Aberdeen FC chairman Dave Cormack paid tribute to Milne's contribution to the club.
He said: “After more than three decades of service to the club that he loves, Stewart has decided it’s time to step down from the board.
“Throughout that time, Stewart provided strong leadership and direction to navigate Aberdeen FC through some of the most challenging periods in our recent history. His wise counsel, determination, drive and dedication have never wavered, and he has always acted in the best interests of our club.
“Stewart has been a huge support to me over the years, and I was delighted he agreed to remain on the board after stepping down as chairman almost seven years ago.
“We will be honouring Stewart and his family with a fitting tribute in due course.”
Reflecting on his decision, Milne described his time at Pittodrie as a privilege and highlighted some of the club's recent achievements.
He said: “It’s been a real honour and privilege to have served Aberdeen for so long. During my tenure, there have been many highs and lows but, despite some very challenging and testing times, we’ve always found a way through.
“Inevitably, there will be new and different challenges ahead and I believe the time is right for me to make way for fresh blood to help the board steer the club over the next period.
“There have been some real successes, on and off the pitch; most recently winning the Scottish Cup but also delivering the new training ground at Cormack Park and significantly increasing turnover through commercial and fan engagement initiatives.
“I have so many wonderful memories of my time on the board. I’ve made lifelong friendships at the Club and across Scottish football. It’s been a pleasure working with all my fellow board directors and the incredibly loyal and hard-working people in and around Pittodrie and Cormack Park.
“I wish everyone associated with Aberdeen FC every good fortune going forward. We all share one common goal - to see the club we all love consistently challenging for honours.
“I may be stepping down from the board but I’m not stepping away from Pittodrie and will enjoy attending as many games as possible.”