Paul Duffen has resigned as chairman of Barclays Premier League side Hull.

Speculation has surrounded the future of both Duffen and manager Phil Brown in recent days, and the former has now officially vacated his post.

A club statement confirmed: "The club has received a letter of resignation from Paul Duffen, executive chairman of Hull City AFC and Superstadium Management Company Ltd, which has been accepted and is effective immediately."

Duffen took over at the KC Stadium from Adam Pearson in 2007 and oversaw the club's rise to the top flight for the first time in their history, which was achieved via victory in the 2008 Coca-Cola Championship play-off final.
Pearson yesterday resigned as chairman of football as Coca-Cola Championship club Derby County, sparking suggestions he is set to return to East Yorkshire.

Hull avoided relegation on the final day of last season but chairman Duffen and manager Brown both came under pressure following their poor start to this campaign, which has seen them take just eight points from their opening 10 games.

The statement continued: "The club wishes to express its gratitude to Paul for his outstanding contribution as chairman during a period of unprecedented success for Hull City AFC."

The club will reveal more on their future plans next week, with the statement concluding: "The recruitment process has commenced in respect of the appointment of a new executive chairman and a further statement in relation to this will be issued by the club on Monday 2nd November."

Duffen issued his own statement, which read: "When I succeeded Adam Pearson as chairman of Hull City Football Club in June 2007 I was very aware of the responsibility to build on his legacy.

"I articulated an intention to take the Tigers to the previously uncharted waters of the Premier League and to the eternal credit of the players and coaching staff, that seemingly ridiculous ambition was achieved 11 months later thanks to a victorious debut appearance at Wembley in the play-off final.

"The start to our maiden top-flight campaign broke all previous records for a newly promoted side and ensured that 2008 will forever be remembered as the most remarkable year in Hull City's history.

"Football is a results business and in the same way that I enjoyed the successes of the previous two seasons, so I must take ultimate responsibility for the disappointments of 2009.

"It has been a tremendous privilege to lead the Tigers on this amazing journey and I pay tribute to all the staff for their hard work and dedication as well as to the fans for their magnificent support. I am proud to have played my part and wish the club every success in the future."