Bailey is toast of the turf

CHRIS Bailey is Athletic’s new head groundsman.

The 28-year-old from Limeside had been acting in the role for a year after Lee Williams left the club.

Bailey, who originally joined Athletic four-and-a-half years ago, has a level two Sports Turf qualification and heads a team of three groundstaff.

“It is a great opportunity for me and I learned a lot from Lee who also became my best friend,” he said.

Athletic’s chief executive Neil Joy said: “Chris deserves promotion because he has worked hard, especially over the last year since taking over from Lee.

“He has had to work in challenging circumstances, especially with the climate here, but he has done a great job and deserves this opportunity.”