Essendon's stormy off-season has continued with president David Barham standing down, handing the role over to former player Andrew Welsh.

As contracted captain Zach Merrett tries to exit the club, the Bombers have endured weeks of turbulence due to a restless supporter base and unhappy ex-players.

Instead of facing a potential challenge, Barham has quit the presidency and plans to leave the board entirely.

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Welsh, who played 162 games for Essendon and has become highly successful in his business life, steps up from being vice-president.

"I have given my all over the past three and a half years and tackled every challenge with everything that I have," Barham wrote in a letter to Essendon members.

[David Barham ] Outgoing Essen

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