A proud day for champion Dave

CHAMPION EFFORT . . . Dave Naylor's efforts have been rewarded

LIFELONG Oldham RLFC fan Dave Naylor has landed the prestigious Supporters Direct award as their 2016 Rugby League Community Champion.

Dave (54), a freelance web designer, joined the club's media team as a volunteer early this season when it needed somebody with his specific skills and IT background.

Said club chairman Chris Hamilton: "We are delighted for Dave, who puts in a lot of work on fan-based matters and is now a highly-valued member of our volunteer media team. He helps the club in a variety of roles and works alongside Jenny Travis on social media and other related initiatives."

Roger Halstead, the club's media manager, added: "The award was richly deserved. Since Dave joined us he has done a fabulous job in improving our website and assisting with the production of our match-day programme.

RECOGNITION

"His recognition also reflects positively on our volunteer department which comprises of Jenny Travis (social media), David Murgatroyd (club photographer) and Peter Gray (video)."

Supporters Direct said in a statement: "Dave Naylor has worked miracles this season for Oldham RLFC and its supporters, voluntarily taking on the running of the official website and providing video highlights and audio content. He has thrown himself into everything with great enthusiasm and aplomb and has not only improved the media side of the club but has worked hard to reconnect the club with its supporters and the community it serves."

Growing up in Watersheddings, Dave watched the Roughyeds as a boy and developed a passion which has never left him even though he now lives in Leeds.

"I'm blown away by this award," he said. "I love the work and I love helping the club so it was a no-brainer to offer my services."

He will receive the award at the sport's Kingstone Press Championships' black-tie awards dinner at the Queen's Hotel in Leeds on Monday, September 12.