Welcome to Yorkshire announced on Friday that its chief executive Gary Verity has resigned “on health grounds” with immediate effect following an investigation into “his behaviour towards staff and his expenses.”

Verity has led the transformation of Yorkshire’s profile in recent years, most notably attracting the Grand Départ of the Tour de France in 2014 and the subsequent Tour de Yorkshire, which have significantly boosted the county’s economy.

Verity has recently been linked with the vacant chief executive roles at both the Premier League and the English FA.

“Although not directly linked to Sir Gary’s resignation, concerns have been raised in relation to his behaviour towards staff and his expenses,” said Welcome to Yorkshire.

“As a responsible organisation, Welcome to Yorkshire takes all allegations very seriously.

“The board has investigated these and concluded that Sir Gary made errors of judgement regarding his expenses at a very difficult time for him and his family.

“Sir Gary has agreed to voluntarily reimburse Welcome to Yorkshire for monies owed.

“Welcome to Yorkshire is committed to having a positive working environment and would like to thank all our staff for their continued hard work and dedication and look forward to working with them as the organisation progresses.

“Welcome to Yorkshire would like to place on record its thanks to Sir Gary for the commitment and energy he has demonstrated during his ten years at Welcome to Yorkshire.

“Sir Gary has led the transformation of Yorkshire’s profile, most notably through the Grand Départ of the Tour de France in 2014 and the subsequent legacy of the Tour de Yorkshire, which have significantly boosted the county’s economy.

“We wish him well for the future.”

Verity said: “Over the last ten and a half years I have always tried to set the highest standards of personal performance and leadership. 

“Where this has been achieved, I am grateful and when, on occasions, I have fallen short, I apologise.

“My health is now my main priority. I ask for time and space to heal.

“It has been an honour and a privilege to lead such an inspirational organisation and work with such a creative and talented team.”

“I know that Welcome to Yorkshire will continue to go from strength to strength and achieve many fantastic things over the coming years.”