Players, fans and club officials came together to celebrate a 97 point season that narrowly missed promotion, recognising standout contributors both on and off the pitch.
Ramsbottom United may have narrowly missed out on promotion to the Northern Premier League, but Friday night saw the club united in celebration of a remarkable campaign.
The event, held at the neighbouring Ramsbottom Cricket Club, welcomed around 80 attendees for a night of recognition, music, raffles and food. Despite a third-place finish and a play-off loss, the 97 points collected by the Rams would have secured promotion in almost any other season.
Several awards were handed out on the night. Supporters voted defender Harvey Hayhurst as their Player of the Year, while the players named striker Tom Hoyle as theirs. April’s Player of the Month went to Luke Barlow, and manager Steve Wilkes gave his personal Player of the Year accolade to Maine Walder, who joined the celebrations remotely from the West Indies.
Off the pitch, goalkeeping coach Lewis Hindley was named Clubman of the Year for his extensive contributions beyond coaching, including acting as kitman and taking on other vital behind-the-scenes roles.
Supporters also paid tribute to Mark McCann, who attended every game this season, including friendlies. Meanwhile, long serving committee member Andy Brown, who is stepping down after over a decade of voluntary service, was presented with a framed signed shirt from the players.
Coach Scott Campbell, concluding his second spell with the club, received a warm farewell and a case of beers in appreciation for his long service to the team’s development.
The evening also saw thanks extended to sponsors, in particular Phil Rose of Rosebridge, who has played a central role in securing matchday sponsorship and commercial support for the club.
Manager Steve Wilkes highlighted the importance of volunteers, sponsors and supporters in the club’s ongoing development: “It’s that spirit and commitment that gives us the drive to come back even stronger.”
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