Words John Edwards Picture Jonathan Moore

Altrincham's volunteer of the month award is proving an ideal way of saluting people who are the lifeblood of the club, and our latest winner is no exception.

For more years than he probably cares to remember, Bryan Ford has been out there in all weathers, doing his utmost to help ensure Alty players have a platform befitting the free-flowing style of football they have always favoured.

Any Robins fan attending games at The J.Davidson Stadium on a regular basis will be familiar with the sight of Bryan, pitchfork or hoe in hand, smoothing down divots or enabling water to drain away before kick-off or at half-time.

As assistant to a succession of groundsmen over the years, the latest being the recently-appointed David Jones, his duties extend way beyond that priceless contribution on matchdays. In between, he adds still more hours to his Alty input by applying himself wholeheartedly to the many daily tasks that need completing to keep the pitch in the best possible condition.

Alty through and through and a Moss Lane stalwart of many years' standing, Bryan's sterling efforts are hugely appreciated by everyone at the club and can now be recognised officially after he was named as the latest recipient of our monthly award, kindly sponsored by flourishing town centre eatery Blanchflower.

He wins a £30 voucher to be spent at Blanchflower, and the club's gratitude for all he does was expressed by interim chief executive Sam Mackenzie, who said: "Quite simply, Bryan is a fixture at the club, a constant whose contribution is almost unquantifiable for the way he has worked tirelessly on the pitch. He has been involved in the club and has been making a huge impact for a long time.

"When I arrived at the club, I remember Bryan welcomed me warmly, though it is generally the case that if he has anything positive or light-hearted to say, it's only after he has told me all that is wrong in the world! Only kidding, Bryan - I have grown fond of you and it's great having you at the club. Thank you for all your hard work and enjoy Blanchflower!"