MARK Hird has been unveiled as the new chairman of Bradford City Women.

The appointment of Hird comes following the departure of club stalwart Sally Thackray, who called time on a 22-year association with the Bantams’ ladies outfit towards the end of the previous campaign.

Hird, having joined City at the beginning of last season as commercial manager, is looking forward to getting underway in his new role.

He said: “After Sally announced she would be leaving, the committee turned to me - with the ideas I had to take the club forward - and voted me on.

“We are looking to go back to basics and, essentially, start the club from scratch.

“The aim is to build back up and regain our reputation, then push on towards the Championship.

“Next season we will be hoping to sustain our league position and, depending on the players we recruit, push for promotion.

“To start with, stability is the most important thing for us.”

The 49-year-old has paid tribute to the outgoing Thackray and hopes he and his team will be able to create a legacy at City as long lasting as the former chairperson’s.

Hird added: “Sally has worked tirelessly throughout her time at Bradford.

“Without her, the club would not be here today.

“Over the 22 years she has served, there have been many ups and downs and Sally has remained through thick and thin.

“She helped set up the junior section, for us to have a steady flow of young players coming through to aid the future of the club.”