STEVE Claridge insists fans have no reason to be suspicious about the resignations of two club officials.

The Whites head coach spoke out in the wake of the departures at last night's fans' forum.

Amanda Newbery stepped down from her role as acting chief executive on December 19 - nine months after being appointed.

Newbery, who is the co-owner of the Chapel Nightclub, also announced her resignation from Salisbury BID and said she was unable to devote the time she wanted due to the launch of a new business.

Three days later, Ian Ridley, a close friend of Claridge's, confirmed his decision to resign as vice-chairman because of "personal circumstances".

Both exits sparked speculation from supporters that something had happened behind the scenes - but Claridge was keen to scotch rumours.

"I think, to be fair, what needs clarifying is, and I'm sure what everyone is wondering, have they gone for various other reasons? And the answer is the reasons they've gone for is for the legitimate reasons they have given. There isn't anything more than that," said Claridge.

"People don't need to read in to it, that is it.

"No one has fallen out, nothing has happened."

Chairman David Phillips, who was also at the meeting alongside fellow director Jeremy Harwood, says the board is searching for new recruits.

"We've been discussing the possibility of new board members and that's always been an option," said Phillips.

"To be fair, in both cases, Ian has stepped back a while ago and the things he was involved in with, like the website and the media, has been taken over by Thom Belk.

"Obviously, Ian's journalistic experience is very much missed and I learnt a lot from him. He predicted one or two things which came true. He also has a considerable knowledge of how non-league football works."

"Amanda is also someone who has decided to step back.

"Amanda has got a business starting and she gets involved in an awful lot of things. She's still helping.

"We're asking if someone else can come in and we'll see how we go."