LABOUR'S only Scottish MP has stood down from his post as leader of the football supporters group to concentrate on his political commitments.
Murray, named as Shadow Scottish Secretary, said that his involvement with the Foundation of Hearts had been has been "one of the greatest pleasures of my life", but that his busy political diary meant he could no longer do the role justice.
The group intend to take control of Hearts from current owner Ann Budge by 2019, and are backed by cash pledges from more than 8000 supporters, which help fund Hearts on a monthly basis.
The Foundation will name Brian Cormack chairman in his place and a new fan representative will be chosen to fill the void in the Hearts boardroom.
The MP said: "Since my re-election I have taken on a number of senior responsibilities that will reduce the spare time I have available to dedicate to other interests.
"I have, after much soul-searching, taken the decision that the FoH requires a new chair and director that can give maximum attention to continuing to grow the membership and preparing the organisation for full supporter ownership.
"I'm very proud to have been part of a team who helped to own the history and shape the future. Generations of future Jambos who put their hard-earned money in to save the club will look back on these times and say 'we did that'."
Mr Cormack, one of the founding members of FoH, commended Murray's work as chairman. Murray was heavily involved in bringing the club out of administration last year and has helped Budge and the Foundation work together.
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