PIRATES are in negotiations to secure the services of a new promoter following Gordon Pairman’s decision to step aside from his role.

Pairman informed boss Matt Ford of his decision ahead of Poole securing their eighth league title in 16 seasons at King’s Lynn earlier this month.

And it is believed Pirates are hoping to put the finishing touches to an agreement with a local businessman ahead of an official unveiling soon.

Ford, who last month revealed in an exclusive interview with the Daily Echo that he was open to offers for the club, paid tribute to Pairman’s contribution.

Ford told the Daily Echo: “Gordon has been with me since 2010 and has been an absolute pleasure to deal with.

“While we didn’t get to see him that often, he was always on the end of the phone if I needed to run anything by him, especially in terms of legal procedures.

“It has been great to have him on board. He hasn’t ever got involved in with the team per se but he has always been there to offer advice on the running of the business.

“Perhaps if Gordon had been slightly younger, he would have been the person to have taken the club on. But while he still has the ability, I’m not sure he has the enthusiasm.

“All good things come to an end and he goes with my blessing. It’s been a very productive and successful period of the club’s history and we will remain friends.”