Premier League chairman Anthony Fry has stepped down from his position due to illness.

Fry succeeded Dave Richards in June last year but was taken severely ill in March after he suffered a stroke.

He said in a statement: “I have been very fortunate and I am delighted to be making significant progress with my recovery.

“On the advice of my doctors, however, I realise that I need to scale back my business activities.

“It is with regret, therefore, that I have decided to step down from my position as chairman of the Premier League which, given my continuing roles at Dairy Crest, CALA and Control Risks, demands more commitment than I am able to give currently.

“It would not be fair to the Premier League, nor its member clubs, not to be able to continue to give that commitment.

“I would like to thank the Premier League for its understanding and support during what has been a very difficult time. I am sure it will continue to go from strength to strength as an impressive, professional and progressive body as well as a fantastic football competition.”

Chairman of the audit and remuneration of the Premier League Bruce Buck said: “It is a great shame that we were only just getting to see the full range of his capabilities when Anthony was taken ill.

“It is absolutely right for Anthony to concentrate on making a full recovery.”