Infectious. That’s the word that best sums up Grenville Millington.

His enthusiasm, energy and excitement whenever we spoke about Chester FC was contagious.

For me, he was the perfect choice to take up the reins last October. At that time, the club needed someone with the universal approval of supporters, Grenville provided a figurehead, respected and adored, and an approachable one too.

He commanded respect for his achievements on the pitch, but more so through his disposition off the field.

He treated everyone the same and had no agenda. Grenville accepted the role of chairman because he cares about the club and he wanted to make a difference, which he has.

He was open, honest, genuine, passionate.

Gren could have talked about his beloved Blues all day

Every phone conversation I had with him followed the same pattern. I’d call him to ask about a particular topic or with a specific question, he’d answer as best he could but we’d soon digress. The next thing I know we’ve been talking for 15 minutes about something else entirely and I’d attempt to wind the conversation down with Gren telling me "you’re trying to get off the phone now but I can talk about the club all day" and it was true.

He could have because it’s been his life for the best part of 35 years and I sincerely hope it will remain so.

We spoke briefly after the weekend’s game at Gateshead and, on reflection, something seemed amiss. There was an unusual forlornness about him and perhaps his mind had been made up then.

Grenville Millington was proud to serve the club as a player and chairman

I’m saddened he has gone and if, as it seems, he’s to step back entirely, the club will be a much poorer place without him.

His decision surprised his fellow directors and comes at a time when the board is in a period of transition following last week’s City Fans United AGM.

So the Blues must now decide on a new chairman, the fourth as a fan-owned club and probably the most important yet.

Prior to the election, I suggested CFU had reached a crossroads and perhaps this is the right time for change. The new-look board can start afresh with a real chance to move the club forward.

He'll be a tough act to follow...

Whoever replaces Grenville will have an excellent support network behind them, both in the boardroom and from a priceless band of volunteers.

Who should it be? There’s no right or wrong choice but there are certain qualities the new chairman will need. Thick skin, acumen, patience, perseverance and time will help them cope with the demands of the role, dynamism, humility and resolve will aid them in connecting with and uniting the fans, which is paramount.

The three previous chairmen to have filled the position since 2010 gave fine service to the Blues.

Like us all, each had strengths and weaknesses but what united them was a love for the club and a desire to improve its fortunes, and those are the most important traits the new chairman needs.

Timeline: A look back at Grenville's tenure as chairman

Recap: All the reaction to Grenville's decision from our live blog