Mick Conway is 'delighted' to be an award-winning groundsman

AFC Telford United's Mick Conway has won the Football Association groundsman of the year award for Conference sides.

The 53-year-old, who has nurtured the notoriously boggy pitch of five years ago, beat off competition from over 60 non-league teams to win the top prize.

"Just being nominated was something, but to go ahead and win it means a lot," he told BBC Radio Shropshire.

"Of course, I'll have to do a better job next time to see if I can win it again," he joked.

The FA award was judged on the state of the turf, the experience of the groundsman and the amount of time spent looking after the pitch.

"Just to get an award for groundsman of the year makes it all worth while," Conway said.

"I like to keep a good playing surface for the lads and I like to see them win on it."

Lilleshall-based Conway has worked full-time at the New Bucks Head for almost five years.

He puts his success down to his knowledge of grass and fertilisers as well as his passion for the job.

"You have to know the basics, what you're doing and you have to enjoy the job. The more you do it, the easier it gets," he added.

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