Blyth will retire as non-executive director after Anglo Pacific's general meeting on 11 May. He had been on the board since 2013, and was chairman from 2014 to 2017. Blyth established the current board structure. He is also a member of the nomination committee.

"We are immensely grateful to Mike for his six years of service," said Anglo Pacific chairman Patrick Meier. "Mike has played a vital role on the board and his experience, commercial acumen and attention to good governance has proven invaluable to Anglo Pacific. He has been an exceptional Chair of both the Audit and Remuneration Committees and we will miss his wise counsel. It has been a privilege to work alongside Mike and we wish him well."

Anglo Pacific also said Jim Rutherford will become senior independent director, with immediate effect.

London-listed Anglo Pacific (LSE: APF) shares were trading at 173p on Monday. Its shares were worth 190p a year ago. The company's market capitalisation is £313.94 million.