National League North April awards

Manager of the Month

Alun Armstrong – Blyth Spartans

Blyth Spartans fans can no doubt do with some good news after an agonising Vanarama Eliminator defeat on Wednesday night. They were heartbroken as they lost on penalty kicks as Altrincham edged through.
If only the calendar was kinder – if the game was 24 hours earlier they may be in the semi-final on Sunday.
That’s because April was a sensational month where they didn’t put a foot wrong.
There really is no doubt about the Manager of the Month award as Alun Armstrong oversaw seven straight wins.
Spartans saw off Curzon Ashton, Boston United, Nuneaton Borough, Guiseley, FC United of Manchester and Southport.
They also won at Stockport County, the eventual champions. But despite their incredible month, they won’t be going up with them.
Though one thing is for sure, the ex-Middlesbrough striker has done a wonderful job and they can be rightly proud of a fantastic season after their late surge.

Player of the Month

Jordan Hulme – Altrincham

If you’re looking for a consistent performer, look no further than Altrincham’s Jordan Hulme.
His four-goal haul last month ensured Alty finished in a play-off place while taking his own personal tally for the season to 16.
Alfreton Town were first up and were given a hiding by Phil Parkinson’s men, Hulme weighing in with a goal in their 7-0 win.
That result was always going to be a benchmark. It proved to be the case as he scored against AFC Telford United three days later and then against Chorley and Hereford.
Three points against Nuneaton Borough and a point on the final day against Ashton United kept the Club’s National League ambitions bubbling over for a little while longer.
Whatever path their season takes from here, you can bet your bottom dollar Hulme will have a big say in proceedings.
His Manager says he’s a “class act” – and he’s not wrong.

Volunteer of the Month

Jack Salkeld  – Curzon Ashton

Jack Salkeld has won Volunteer of the Month for Curzon Ashton in the National League North.
The Club say there is never a dull moment when Jack is around and, as it happens, that tends to be often!
On Tuesdays and Thursdays, he assists with the first-team coaching sessions and also helps out on matchdays; a ‘massive character’ in the changing room.
He also coaches the Club’s under-9s Junior Team on Wednesdays and Fridays and with their matchdays on Sundays.
When he does get a spare moment, he represents the Club by delivering coaching sessions at local schools. At Christmas, Jack delivered the presents to the children at Tameside Hospital too.
The Club wish to thank Jack for his dedication through this award.