A SPECIAL presentation has been made to Wellington AFC stalwart Jeff Brown to mark his services to football.

He received an outstanding achievement award at the annual end-of-season convention of the Jewson Western League at the Imperial Hotel, Torquay.

The accolade was announced by league chairman John Pool and presented by president Brian Beer.

John said: “I was delighted the league was able to recognise Jeff’s service with the award which is richly deserved.”

Jeff said the award had come as a complete surprise but felt honoured to receive the recognition which was also a tribute to the work the club as a whole had carried out recently to improve their facilities.

Wellington chairman Mike Hall said: “We are all delighted Jeff’s wonderful commitment to football and to Wellington AFC has been recognised. He has been a pivotal figure in our club for many years.”

Jeff has been involved with Wellington AFC since his teens, originally managing the U18s who included his brother Roger among their ranks.

He went on to enjoy a spell as secretary and was first team manager on two occasions.

Back in the 1970s, Jeff was involved in the planning and construction of the clubhouse and then the function room which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year.

He was also social secretary, bringing live bands to the club every Saturday night.

Having managed a youth team, Jeff became involved with the Taunton Youth League, holding the roles of secretary and treasurer for about 30 years.

He then became secretary of Wellington AFC eight years ago, remaining in the post for six years before being succeeded by his wife Jane.

Jeff has spent the past couple of years working on planning, obtaining FA grants and project management for the replacement of the club’s floodlights, a new spectator stand, hardstanding and replacement pitch barrier to meet FA requirements.