Former England and Arsenal footballer Tony Adams, who has been in recovery from alcohol dependency for 28 years, is to chair the board of addiction and recovery charity Forward Trust.

Adams, who has spoken publicly for several years about his reliance on alcohol, will replace David Bernstein, who is stepping down after a decade in the role.

His appointment follows his role as an ambassador for campaigns led by the charity, including Taking Action on Addition and More Than My Past.

Adams is founder of the Sporting Chance Clinic, which helps sportspeople with addiction problems and has also launched the company Six Mental Health Addiction, which provides mental health and addiction support to business employees.

His career was impacted by alcohol addiction and led to him spending a short time in prison.

“As an Ambassador of The Forward Trust for the last 20 years, I have seen at first-hand the amazing work they do and have always been a vocal supporter of the programmes and support they provide,” said Adams.

“Their work with ex-offenders and specifically the scourge of addiction is one particularly close to my heart as a recovering addict and ex-offender.”

Forward Trust chief executive Mike Trace added: “I have seen the inspirational impact Tony has had on a wide range of people when he shares his story.

“I am looking forward to working with him to take this life-affirming message to new audiences in the coming years.”

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