WHARFEDALE RUFC held their Annual General Meeting last week and David Baker announced that he was stepping down as chairman.

Baker has been very influential at the club over the last two decades having served two stints as chairman, however, he is standing down because of work commitments.

The AGM unanimously voted in new chairman John Sykes whilst Baker will support him as vice chairman.

Sykes has been involved with the club since 2006. He has been on the General Committee since 2017 and has held the post of Health and Safety Officer.

He currently lives in Addingham and is already active in the community. He is Chair of Governors at the Boyle and Petyt Primary School, Beamsley and a member of the Addingham Environment Group.

Looking ahead to his new position, Sykes said: “It’s a great honour to take up this role in the club’s centenary year. I’ll look forward to the challenges ahead. Wharfedale is a great community club with a proud tradition.”

“I’m looking forward to working with Head Coach, Simon Verbickas, and the Rugby Committee in developing the squad, with all members of the Wharfedale community, General Committee, staff and volunteers.”

David Baker was thanked by the AGM for all his hard work.