Whitchurch Alport are delighted to announce defender Darren Campion as the new club captain.

The position became available after Simon Everall departed for Sandbach United a couple of weeks ago.

Campion ‘dual-signed’ last season, playing a pivotal part in the club’s play-off success back in May.

He committed in the summer to sign permanently at Yockings Park and has become a huge hit with the supporters.

An experienced player, he is a former skipper at previous clubs such as Hednesford Town, and Walsall Wood.

“I feel honoured to be asked to be club captain of such a great club which is most definitely on the rise,” he said.

“In the short time I’ve been here the club has grown on me more and more as the time has gone on. The more I learn about the club each week and what a long way it has come on and off the pitch, it’s amazing to see the huge following every week win, lose or draw.

“I will take great pleasure in leading the team out every week and will always give my all and lead by example.

“I’d like to say a huge thank you to the management and club for giving me this opportunity. I’m sure there are lots and lots of good times ahead of us.”

Campion will be supported by vice captains in midfielder Sean Griffiths and goalkeeper Dave Parton.

The management team said the importance of continuity and the connection between the players and supporters that has been a huge strength towards the progress in all areas.

The defender will be the first to admit that Alport have failed to show their true potential in their debut campaign at step five.

But with the captain’s armband secured, he is the ideal candidate to lift those in the team on match day as well as the rest of the squad in training sessions.

With just 11 games remaining, now is the time for the Reds to demonstrate they are better than what their league position may suggest.

On Saturday, the league’s proverbial whipping boys, Abbey Hey, visit Yockings. Adrift at the foot of the table this looks like a shoe in three-pointer but the Mancunians will fight for their lives.

n Last week, The Herald used a picture of Joe Minshull instead of Everall, and apologise for any inconvenience caused to the individuals and club.