A BROMSGROVE man, who gives his time for the football club he has supported for more than 20 years, has won an award for his first year as groundsman.

Alec Hodgkiss, groundsman at Bromsgrove Rovers, was voted the best in the North West of England and Worcestershire and received recognition at a ceremony last week.

His award is at level three and below, which incorporates all clubs at or below Midland Football Alliance level.

"I was over the moon when I found out," Alec, who works voluntarily, said.

"I'm glad the team has got promotion. I do it for my football club and that is payment enough. I have supported Rovers for a long time now."

The 50-year-old, who works on the pitch four mornings a week, was also praised for the job he does at the Victoria Ground with minimal resources.

Alec uses a garden fork to dig the ground and also has an old roller and tractor to keep Rovers' pitch in prime condition.

Mr Hodgkiss said: "It's an award for the equipment you have to work with and for the pitch because it's inspected by the Football Association.

"It's very primitive because of the finances of the club but I hope to get some more equipment soon.

"It's not always the best. Sometimes it comes down to what the person has to work with. You can still do a good job without what some people have."

Alec now goes through to the national finals and Rovers' ground will be inspected again on Thursday, June 13.