THE Chief Executive of one of the North East’s leading sporting clubs has announced that he is to step down from his role, after more than 20 years with the business.

David Harker, who has been at the helm of Durham County Cricket Club (DCCC) for the past 13 years, will leave his role in May to pursue a private business venture.

The North East-born businessman, who joined the company as financial controller in 1991, before being promoted to his current position, tendered his resignation to the DCCC board earlier this week.

He will maintain involvement with the Chester-le-Street-based club, having been invited to take up a role as a non-executive director after he leaves his executive post in May.