Sir Gareth Edwards has stepped down as a director of Cardiff Blues after 22 years.

The Welsh rugby legend joined the board at the start of professional rugby having spent 12 years as a player at the Arms Park.

Edwards, widely regarded as the greatest scrum-half in history, said now was the right time to step down.

“It has been an absolute honour and privilege to serve as a director of the company for so long,” said the 71-year-old.

“When Peter Thomas took on the chairmanship he asked if I would join the board and I was delighted to give something back to the club, as it was then, which had done so much for me and Cardiff Blues as it is today.

“It has not been without its ups and downs but my involvement has been most enjoyable and I will certainly remain a supporter in the stands at Cardiff Arms Park as the region enters a new era.”

Edwards’ decision comes after Peter Thomas announced he would be standing down as chairman, although he remains a director and an honorary life-time president.

Alun Jones, the managing partner of Hugh James, officially began his new role on January 1, and he has paid tribute to Edwards’ contribution at Cardiff Arms Park.

“Sir Gareth is not only one of the world’s greatest ever players, who represented Cardiff, Wales, the Barbarians and the British & Irish Lions with such distinction, but he has contributed an enormous amount to Welsh rugby off the pitch, particularly here at Cardiff Blues,” said Jones.

“We are all immensely grateful to the likes of Peter and Gareth for their significant support over the years.”