On Saturday night, a special presentation was made to Brian “Scoop” Bennett who has reached the massive milestone of 50 years with Ashington AFC.

Brian started reporting for the Chronicle back in the 74/75 season in what turned out to be a 6-2 home defeat to Consett. This didn’t deter him from the role however and over the 50 year spell, he has seen three promotion seasons, two relegation seasons, four FA Cup runs which ended at the 4th Qualifying Round as well as two Northumberland Senior Cup titles. Could his 50th year also be the season in which he sees his third?

On receiving the award on Saturday evening, an overwhelmed Scoop could not thank the people of the club more for all the support they have given him (we still say he has given us more than we have given him) as well as paying a special tribute to his long suffering wife and son, Janet and Jonny who have had to endure all the ups and downs that come with being part of Ashington Football Club.

Brian also acknowledged that Vince Gledhill had been instrumental in securing his involvement here at Ashington. Back in 1975 he had asked Brian to come across to cover games for the local paper, but at the time Brian had recently started covering Bedlington Terriers (booooo!) for the local press. Vince, if you’re reading this Ashington AFC are forever in your debt!

Scoop, a massive thank you from us all!