Quinn Steps Down As SAFC Foundation Trustee

28 February 2012, 05:09 | Updated: 30 March 2016, 13:50

Following his departure from Sunderland AFC last week, Niall Quinn has also stepped down from his role as a Trustee of SAFC Foundation.

Niall served as a trustee of the charity for seven years, after accepting an invitation from Foundation founder, Chairman of Trustees and former SAFC chairman, Sir Bob Murray CBE.

Structurally and financially independent of the football club, SAFC Foundation relies on fundraising for 95% of project costs. 

It uses the power of football and the SAFC brand to inspire, involve and educate more than 40,000 children and their families across the north east in activities that improve their lives every year.

Niall has confirmed that despite no longer holding the title of Trustee, he will continue to be an advocate for SAFC Foundation and will still lend his name to the annual 'Niall's Mile' community walking event.

Speaking of his departure Niall commented:
"I am hugely proud of SAFC Foundation and it has been a privilege to have been involved their work over the last seven years.

I always used to describe it as Sunderland's hidden gem although it's grown so much now that I don't think it's so hidden any more!

I'd like to thank Bob Murray for inviting me to become involved initially and for giving me the opportunity to work with such an incredible group of people, who have ensured that Sunderland AFC is at the forefront in community support and engagement within football."

Sir Bob Murray CBE said:
"On behalf of myself and the rest of the Board of Trustees I'd like to thank Niall for his support and wish him all the best in his future endeavours.

His passion and enthusiasm will be missed but we understand and appreciate his decision to step down."

Niall stepped down from his role at the football club recently to return to Ireland to concentrate on his family and business interests outside football