Weston-super-Mare AFC have announced Sam Trego as their new head groundsman.

Trego replaces Bob Flaskett, after he announced he would be stepping down from the role last month (November)

Trego has served as Weston Cricket Club groundsman for the past seven years and been a supporter of the Seagulls for nearly three decades.

"I’m delighted to have been appointed the Head Groundsman of Weston-super-Mare AFC and can’t wait to get started in the new year," Trego told the club's website.

“Over the past couple of months, I’ve been helping on match days and during the week learning how the pitch is prepared by Bob Flaskett for the next home fixture.

“I’ve been fortunate enough that over the past seven years, I’ve been the groundsman at Weston Cricket Club, a role which I will be continuing in, and have set my standards very high. I am looking forward to doing the same here at Weston-super-Mare AFC."

He added: “I’ve followed the Seagulls for almost 30 years, travelling to many grounds with my grandad David Marquiss when the club were in the Great Mills League," he added. 

"A trip to Saltash Utd or Liskeard on a Tuesday night was never a problem!

“I remember the FA Cup trip away to Woking and the replay at the old Woodspring Park where we lost 1-0.

“It was fantastic last year following the boys and seeing them win the league last season. We’ve been on a great run over the last month and I’m sure that’s going to continue.”

Trego's predecessor Flaskett spent 20 years with Weston after joining the Seagulls from Weston St John in 2003.

Flaskett will still be at the club after his retirement, during the week and on match days in an advisory position to support Trego.

"I’d like to take this opportunity to thank Bob for all his hard work and dedication over the past two decades and I’m delighted to have him close by guiding me through these next few months," Trego added.

Managing director Oli Bliss, whose Dad Paul Bliss brought Flaskett to the club, welcomed Trego to the club and said he was pleased with the appointment.

"Whilst it is a big loss with Bob leaving, I am very happy to announce the appointment of Sam Trego to the role of Head Groundsman," he said.

“He has worked very well with Bob over the past few months in a volunteer role, which has given him a chance to learn the role.

“Alongside this role, he will continue in his head groundsman role at Weston Cricket Club as well, these two roles will fit well together.

“Welcome to the team Sam.”