Chief Executive Matt Williams to leave Shrews for Burnley

Williams, who joined the club in May 2014, is departing for family reasons and returning to the north west having previously been secretary at Blackpool.

Town chairman Roland Wycherley said: "We are sorry to be losing Matt and I'd like to place on record our thanks for his significant contribution to this football club

"As a family man myself, I fully understand the reasons behind his decision.

"Since he arrived at the club, he has helped to progress the club and provided a stable platform to move forwards.

"However, with his wife expecting their first child in March, Matt understandably wanted to be closer to home. At the end of January he will leave with our thanks and best wishes and he knows he will be welcome back at the Greenhous Meadow at any time."

Williams who joined the club after 12 successful years at Blackpool, said: "Shrewsbury is a fantastic club with a Chairman who is passionate about its success, I am disappointed to be leaving him as he put his faith in me to help him take the club forward and I will be forever grateful to him for giving me the chance to work at the club.

"Obviously I am sad to be leaving Shrewsbury and I know I am leaving the club in a better place than it was when I walked in, but I hope everyone will understand and appreciate the reasons behind my decision.

"My wife works in the North West, our families are based in that area and with us expecting our first child in March, I didn't want to be away from home for long periods of time in the way I have been these last 18 months.

"When the opportunity arose to go to Burnley, it was something I had to seriously consider because of my family situation - the prospect of working with a club of that size of course excites me immensely, as does being home every night with my wife and new born baby.

"Between now and the end of January, I will give the Chairman, Club and supporters my all to ensure that our development on and off the field continues."