GRAHAM Fenney’s dedication to grassroots football has spanned three decades.

Thanks to that time and devotion, thousands of youngsters have progressed through Rainford Rangers’ ranks, enjoying the game and making lasting friendships with team-mates Graham, a recently retired sales manager, has never been someone who has asked for acknowledgments.

But he does appreciate the hours he puts in could not have happened without the support of his family.

So fittingly he devoted the OD’s Designer Clothing Menswear Champion Fundraiser to his wife Jennifer, with whom he recently celebrated their ruby wedding anniversary.

He said: “I have had great support from my wife. She is my rock.

We have had thousands of kids come through here – from little ones to under 18s.

“I must say I didn’t expect this after hearing the other nominations that were read out. And I must pay tribute to those nominees for the work they have done.”

His most significant achievement came when he led the creation of a new home ground for Rainford Rangers Football Club.

His persistence saw nine acres of farmland in the village converted to pitches, meaning the club has been able to expand from 120 players to more than 250, including 40 girls.

He added: “I have loved every minute of being involved with this football club for 30 years. We reversed the trend of having agricultural land turned into building land by turning it into sports land instead.”

Jill Hall and Ernest Stockley were highly commended.