MIKE Davies has resigned as managing director at the Dragons after less than a year in the role.

Davies was appointed at Rodney Parade last April after previously working for B&Q for more than 30 years.

However, he has now stepped down and David Buttress will move into an executive chairman role for the remainder of 2019.

The Dragons will look for a replacement and they will also appoint a manager to deal with off-field rugby matters.

Davies said: "This has been a difficult decision to leave the region. However, I'm convinced that this is the right time for me and the Dragons to make a change.

"My roots are embedded in Gwent and I will continue to be a fervent supporter of the team. Although there's much work still to do to achieve success, there's great potential for the Dragons to build a bright future.

"Off the field we've seen growth in our commercial revenues this last 12 months and refined our financial accountability.

"There's an academy brimming with young talent that's performing at age grade level and the region is supplying an increasing number of international players for both Wales Under-20s as well as the senior side, enjoying recent Grand Slam success.

"I would ask everybody to get behind David and the Dragons team."

Buttress added: "We would like to thank Mike for his contribution to the Dragons during his time with the region.

"As a board and organisation we are determined to dramatically grow our revenues to continue to invest in the team, commercial and stadium infrastructure as well as community development programmes, so a strong leadership team at the helm is essential to drive the region forwards."