In a letter to the Chairman and National Game members of Council, confirming his resignation, Mr Pattison explained that he had concerns at recent developments in relation to the running and regulation of the Association's affairs in the future.

Geoff Thompson, The FA's Chairman, said: "I am extremely saddened by Frank's decision to resign.

"Frank has made a wonderful contribution to The FA as a Vice Chairman and Chairman of our National Game Board. "Frank's tireless work to support football at all levels, but particularly grass roots football in this country, will be sorely missed by The FA at Board level and throughout the National Game.

"I am delighted however that Frank will continue to serve The FA and English football as a member of The FA's Council, which he first joined in 1989 as representative for Durham, and as President of Durham FA, a post he has held since 1984.

"I look forward to calling on Frank's vast knowledge and experience in the future."

The FA's National Game Board will meet in the near future to determine Mr Pattison's successor.