Mansfield Town made the announcement late on Friday afternoon, saying the decision was by 'mutual consent'.

• New Stags chief to call the tune

The Stags said they would not be commenting further on the news ahead of an expected fuller statement early next week, other than to say: "We would like to thank John for his efforts whilst with us.".

There is no suggestion of a disagreement between the club and the now former chief executive - and it is thought that the decision was agreed during discussions over the Christmas holidays.

Hemmingham joined the club at the start of the season after the takeover by Andy Perry, Steve Middleton and Andy Saunders.

A self-confessed football nut, Hemmingham (45) has a wealth of experience and knowledge after working with Sheffield Wednesday and Leeds United from both the supporters' and club sides of things.

A founder member of the world-famous England supporters' terrace band, he had originally joined the Stags as operations director.

He was unavailable for comment on Friday evening.