TWO directors have resigned from the board of Darlington FC in the wake of social media “vitriol” and the club’s hopes of a promotion potentially being dashed.

The club said director Richard Cook – who holds a senior role in a major international organisation – was standing down after “disgraceful and completely unjustifiable” online attacks.

The online abuse followed the club’s decision to ban two fans from Blackwell Meadows for throwing plastic bottles at the AFC Fylde keeper during an away fixture on April 1.

And another director, Jonathan Jowett, will step down to take on the role of Company Secretary, where he will oversee an appeal to the FA over the National League’s decision to prevent the club taking part in the play-offs.

Darlington’s hopes of a fourth promotion in five years are in disarray after it emerged its new Blackwell Meadows ground does not have enough covered seats to take part in the play-offs.

Mr Jowett and team are expected to launch an appeal to the FA by Thursday.

In a statement, Darlington FC said: “Richard... feels that he is unable to balance both his working and family commitments with the cultural fit of being a director of the football club.

“The events at Fylde and vitriol in the last few days, particularly on social media targeted at individuals who only offered professional services on an unpaid volunteer basis, was disgraceful... and so Richard’s decision comes as no surprise.”

Director John Tempest added: “I would like to thank Richard for everything that he has done for the club, most notably in getting us back playing in Darlington. This was a tremendous achievement, and one which I suspect might not have been achieved but for Richard’s leadership.”

Wayne Raper, chairman of the Supporters Group, paid tribute to Mr Cook’s work and said: “He was seen as a vital member of the club board with a broad skill set which was a huge asset... he will be extremely difficult to replace. We hope that Richard will continue to attend games in future and will be afforded the warm welcome he deserves.

“As a fan-owned and funded club not only do we need to respect the players and coaching staff but also the board and all volunteers. Without that respect, it’s difficult to see how we can move forward.”

The club will detail future plans at a Fans’ Forum on Friday.