Northampton Saints chairman Hewitt to stand down at the end of the season

Tony Hewitt will stand down at the end of the season. Credit: ITV News Anglia

Northampton Saints chairman Tony Hewitt will step down at the end of the current season, the club have announced.

The 68-year-old has been involved with the Saints for nearly 30 years, and became chairman in 2013 following Leon Barwell's death.

However, he has now decided to stand aside, with current deputy chairman John White taking over in the summer.

Hewitt is the second high profile departure in recent weeks, with Chief Executive Allan Robson announcing his retirement a week ago.

The Saints won the Aviva Premiership in 2014. Credit: PA

Under Hewitt's leadership, the Saints won both the Aviva Premiership and European Rugby Challenge Cup in 2014 and have produced several international players during his time in charge.

He also oversaw the development of the new Barwell Stand, allowing the club to attract more supporters than ever before.

The new Barwell stand was built under Hewitt's stewardship. Credit: ITV News Anglia

Former Saints player John White will take over the reins once Hewitt has left, with ex-Warwickshire County Cricket Club Chief Executive Colin Povey becoming his deputy.