LEGENDARY chairman Jeff Mostyn has penned an open letter to Cherries supporters, after his departure from the club was announced yesterday.

Cherries looked like going out of business in the last 2000s, only for Mostyn to use his own money to ensure the club remained afloat.

Under Eddie Howe, the Dorset outfit would pull off the Greatest Escape, before embarking on a fairytale journey, all the way up to the Premier League.

Mostyn served as chairman of Cherries for 15 years between 2007 and 2022, before his role changed in December of last year.

After Bill Foley bought the club from Maxim Demin, the American made himself chairman, Mostyn moved to an ambassadorial role.

But he has now cut official ties with the club completely.

Mostyn wrote: “After 16 wonderful years, I have made the decision to step away from my duties at AFC Bournemouth.

"I have enjoyed every moment of my time as your chairman and most recently club ambassador with this remarkable football club, but feel that the time is now right for me to look forward to the next chapter and focus on other projects.

“After such a long time working in the most rewarding role you could wish for, announcing this decision was always going to be a difficult step to take. However, I am leaving with unwavering excitement about the direction in which the club is heading.

“It has been a pleasure to work in my ambassadorial role since last season's takeover, and I am confident that the vision and investment being made by Bill Foley will lead to great things and continued success in the coming years. 

“As ever, staff and supporters will remain key as the club's heartbeat. My overriding memories will not only be of the successes we have enjoyed on the field, the incredible journey through the divisions to the Premier League, but also of the many personal relationships created during that time. 

"I wish to thank everybody that has played their part, and I will be forever grateful for such friendships.

“To my wife Rose and my family, thank you for your unwavering love and support throughout.

“This football club has been a huge part of my life for so long, and that won't change. I'm sure you'll still see us at Vitality Stadium cheering on the team, and we can't wait for the start of another season.

“I wish all the very best to everybody involved.”