The Football Association will have an independent chairman from next year after the governing body's shareholders voted in favour of major reforms of the organisation.

The vote at today's AGM at Wembley Stadium saw 78.5% of the 915 votes cast in favour of the structural review recommended by Lord Burns - just over the 75% figure needed.

"Today's decision marks the start of an exciting new era for the Football Association and the end of a very complex process," FA chief executive Brian Barwick said. "I would like to thank the shareholders for their support in bringing in these changes which I am convinced will benefit both the FA and the game as a whole.

"This was a vote for change, and for a modern, representative and effective FA which is better equipped to take decisions in the wider interests of the game.

"I would like to thank Lord Burns for setting us on the path to modernisation, and to recognise the enormous amount that has gone into shaping his recommendations into a new-look FA."

The other major changes to the FA's structure will mean:

Two independent members of the FA Board (the chief executive and the independent chairman) alongside five representatives from the professional game and five from the national game (down from six each).

An expanded FA Council, with added representation for players, managers, referees, women's football, ethnic minorities and disability football, as well as supporters.

A re-organisation of The FA's committee structure to streamline decision-making and better define areas of authority.

A semi-autonomous Football Regulatory Authority to govern the game, reporting to its own board.

A new funding formula dividing the FA's profits 50-50 between the professional and national games.

FA chairman Geoff Thompson, who will be succeeded by an independent chairman when he steps down next year, stated: "The FA is a unique and historic organisation but we also have to make sure it is a relevant one. This is one of the most important days in the FA's 144-year existence.

"The structural review was an open and consultative process right from the start, with everyone involved in the game able to provide their views and opinions.

"As a result, there was a lot of healthy debate about the right way forward but the vote shows the overwhelming support for a more modern, more inclusive FA. I would like to congratulate the FA Council and the shareholders for their commitment to change."

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