Steeton AFC can today announce club stalwart Albert Bates is to retire from his role with the club.
A career with the Chevrons that spans 64 years, Albert has made the decision to retire as groundsman following the conclusion of the 2024/25 season.
During his over six decades with the club, there is not a role or duty that Albert has not fulfilled at one point or another.
From the very top as Club President and Chairman to even washing the kits and running the tea hut, Albert will forever go down as not just a stalwart but a true servant of our football club and village.
Joining the club as we moved from the Keighley & District League to the Craven League, and later the West Riding County Amateur League, Albert also was with the club during our move from The Oaks to Summerhill Lane.
And his legacy will be commemorated at Summerhill Lane with a plaque bearing his name adorning the clubhouse.
The playing surface at Summerhill Lane throughout his tenure as groundsman has been the envy of most around local non-league football.
And it goes without saying that Albert will be a hard act to follow.
Steeton AFC are now in a position in which we are looking to appoint a new groundsman.
It would ideally suit a candidate with current and/or previous experience working within this field and/or industry.
Ideally a suitable candidate will be found and appointed prior to the conclusion of the current football season to allow them to work alongside Albert and then take on responsibility ahead of the 2025/26 season.
If you would be interested in this role then please contact the club.
