Ridsdale in as Preston North End chairman

PETER Ridsdale, the former chairman of Leeds United, has taken the helm at League One outfit Preston North End.

Ridsdale, who has also worked for Barnsley, Cardiff City and most recently the administrator of Plymouth Argyle, replaces Maurice Lindsay as chairman.

He said: “I am delighted and privileged to be joining Preston North End Football Club. Preston North End is a football club that has an incredible football heritage, a large and loyal supporter base and a club that frankly ought to be competing to be joining the Premier League rather than playing in League One.

“I sincerely hope that working with Preston North End’s existing staff and with the continued support of the fan base I can play a part in ensuring that we return to the Championship as a minimum in the not too distant future.”

Preston North End, is owned by Lancashire tycoon and race horse owner Trevor Hemmings. The club was relegated from the Championship last year.