GLAMORGAN chairman Paul Russell has stepped down from his position because of ill health.

Committee member Barry O'Brien, a senior partner in a London law firm, has been appointed as interim chairman.

Nigel Roberts, who had been elected to take over the reigns sometime this year, will remain as deputy chairman.

“I have made this decision because I believe it to be in the best interests of Glamorgan Cricket," said Russell.

"My choosing to depart earlier than planned facilitates the Club addressing and securing its long term future."

Russell was a key figure in the redevelopment of Sophia Gardens and in winning the first Ashes Test in 2009.

The final few months of his eight-year reign were, however, turbulent.

The decision to appoint South African Alviro Petersen as captain led to the winter departures of coach Matthew Maynard, ex-skipper Jamie Dalrymple and president Peter Walker.

And in June Glamorgan were stripped of the right to stage a test between England and the West Indies in 2012.

But chief executive Alan Hamer said Russell's contribution to Glamorgan cricket "has been immense".

"On behalf of the Club, I would like to thank him for his vision, determination and continued commitment," said Hamer.

"I wish Paul well in his retirement and, as a passionate Glamorgan supporter, I'm sure he'll be a regular visitor to the stadium."

Meanwhile on the pitch Glamorgan suffered a 21-run loss to Nottinghamshire at St Helen's in the CB40.

Australian Adam Voges struck a brilliant unbeaten century and Samit Patel took four wickets for the visitors.

Voges scored 103 from 76 balls - with his second 50 coming off only 28 balls - out of the Outlaws' 281 for six from their 40 overs.

Despite opener Gareth Rees scoring a run-a-ball 90 Glamorgan could only make 260 for eight in reply giving Nottinghamshire, who won the toss, their fifth victory of the campaign.