THEY say nice guys don't come first but Danny McDonnell dispelled that myth by capturing the supporters and players' player of the year awards.

It was richly deserved for the City goalkeeper who has been simply brilliant at times throughout a long, hard season.

During his many transfer dealings it's doubtful whether manager John Barton has done a better bit of business than bringing the affable McDonnell to St George's Lane.

Anyone who has come into contact with McDonnell will vouch for a modest and friendly character but lurking within lies a steely determination and strength that has turned him into the best 'keeper in the Dr Martens Premier Division.

Anyone who has seen his lengthy and rigorous warm-up before matches is left in no doubt how seriously he approaches his job.

It wasn't always like that, however, and his father Ray, no mean player himself, had to persuade a young Danny to leave behind his mates at Lye Town to make the leap in divisions when Halesowen Town came knocking.

An accomplished batsman, who has represented Worcestershire Second XI, McDonnell enjoyed the banter and camaraderie of playing with friends and summers at the crease but eventually gave rein to his goalkeeping talent and hasn't looked back.

In a season of personal triumph McDonnell has at times been the difference between victory and defeat as anyone at Tamworth and Hinckley will testify. As Barton contemplates strengthening his side over the summer he's at least safe in the knowledge that the number one jersey is in safe hands.

Another Lane stalwart, Carl Heeley, will complete three league campaigns without missing a match when he leads the side out at Dover on Saturday.

He was recognised for this with a special presentation at the centenary dinner on Saturday and the man dubbed 'King Carl' by fans looks set to reign for a good while yet.

More important to Heeley was Saturday's victory over Grantham which leaves City still in with a chance of third spot in the Premier Division.

"Last season ended really badly but this time round we're going to Dover with something to play for and the chance to finish on a high," he said.

Dan Jones picked up the young player of the year award while Adam Webster collected the most improved player. The clubman of the year award was jointly won by Bill Curling and Lynne Draper for their fundraising efforts.