Netball boss facing arson charges resigns

The chief executive of Canterbury Netball and the Tactix trans-Tasman netball championship franchise, who faces an arson charge after a fire at a Christchurch restaurant in June, has resigned.

Anthony Dawson took up the position in September 2009.

"My full focus for the next 12 months has to be on resolving the legal issues arising from the fire.

"I have much respect for the Tactix organisation and Canterbury Netball and I realise that as I deal with these other matters I will not be able to give them the 100 per cent they require.

"Therefore, in fairness to all, I have decided to resign."

Acting chief executive of Canterbury Netball and chairman of the Tactix Kevin Eder said Mr Dawson's decision allowed staff and the board to put all their energies into planning and building for the future.

Dawson, 43, was charged with arson of a central Christchurch building when he appeared in the district court last month.

He was remanded on bail for a post-committal conference on August 27.

Dawson was charged with extensively damaging a Cambridge Terrace property by fire on June 7, with the intention of causing loss to a company.

He is also charged that on June 10 he dishonestly used a Vero insurance claim form.

Dawson was initially stood down from his roles and then took leave.

- NZPA