The big hole left by departing Hemel Hempstead Town skipper Jordan Parkes was highlighted at the end of season Conference presentation evening as the midfielder was named Vanarama Conference South player of the year.
Parkes celebrated a double triumph at the glitzy bash at Celtic Manor as he was named in the Conference South team of the season before scooping the the prestigious solo prize.
Having scored 30 goals from midfield in all competitions for the Tudors, Parkes said he was left feeling ‘overwhelmed’ after accepting his award from England C manager Paul Fairclough.
Other awards on the night went to Basingstoke Town (Respect Award), Bromley (Fair Play Award), Bath City (Community Award) and Chelmsford City (Programme of the Year).
Meanwhile, sportswear and sports equipment specialist Jako announced a £2.5m, 10-year ball and kit deal with the league, and general manager Dennis Strudwick received a Long and Meritorious Service to Football award.