Shrimps are up for sale

McGuigan has led the club for 16 years, including promotion to the Football League in 2007, but believes now it is the time to move on.

In a statement he said: “Having been chairman for 16 years, I feel the time is right for a new owner to take the club forward and build on a strong platform that exists today.

“The club moved into a new purpose-built, wholly owned stadium in August 2010 and is relatively debt free.

“There is an opportunity to develop the ground further, with a 30,000sq ft pitch-side office block, which is already 50 per cent pre-let, as well as a 50 to 60-room hotel adjacent to the stadium.

“These exciting developments will secure the long-term financial viability of the club.

“The sale will also include the profitable leisure business which is an integral part of the club and facilitates the training and coaching of our first team squad, EPPP scholars and youth development (ages eight to 16yrs).

“In addition, the business allows the hiring of the all-weather facilities each evening and weekends.

“We are extremely proud to have developed long-standing associations with some of the largest businesses in the local area delivering outstanding corporate, conferencing and meeting facilities.

“The club is renowned for its banqueting, hospitality and catering services and has won numerous National Hospitality Awards.

“We are a well managed club with many opportunities for additional income with a clear objective to achieve promotion to League One.”