Well that wasn’t an ‘end’ to 2022 that we expected football-wise was it? The weather seemed to think that we were in the Arctic for far too long so across the whole Club, most of our squads had a good few weeks off. But as the Big Man and his reindeer prepare to set off across the world in a few days’ time, we managed to catch up with our Club Chairman Stewart Dawes and gather his thoughts on how the year has gone. This is what he had to say:

‘First and foremost, I would like to extend the warmest of gratitude to all of our Directors, coaching staff and parents for all of their hard work throughout 2022. They all give up their time voluntarily to ensure that there is a fantastic standard of football provided to each and every player that pulls on our famous jersey and with all the pressures that life is currently putting people under, you are all an absolute credit to Bolton County. Without you we wouldn’t even have a Club so for that we are eternally thankful.

This past year has not been without challenge but we have continued to build upon the foundations laid almost 75 years ago and with more players and more teams wanting to join us than ever before, the County family is continuing to grow. It’s really nice to see some of the old stalwarts coming ‘home’ as well…

As you are all aware, 2023 is our 75th anniversary – which is an amazing achievement in grassroots football! And I am sure that if the people that got together and started this in 1948 could come back and see what we’ve achieved, they would be overwhelmingly amazed and truly proud. A thriving Junior section for both boys and girls – including our brilliant Academy for 3-6 year olds – and four Open Age team including a really good Women’s squad show that Bolton County really are inclusive. Football is for everybody – especially in our family!

There are many planned functions over the coming 12 months – starting with our superb Race Night on 28th January – so it would be great if you could come down and help us celebrate. Keep your eyes out for what’s in store and let’s make sure we enjoy our 75th birthday in style.

So to close the year, I would just like to wish everybody a really Happy Christmas and a healthy and prosperous New Year. I hope you get all you wish for and I – along with everybody connected to our great Club – cannot wait to see you all again in 2023!’

Nice words from the boss there…

You heard him people! Have a great festive season and we will see you all at training early into the New Year. There’s plenty of this season still to look forward to you know…

#UpTheCounty!