Ashton United is delighted to announce the appointment of George Clayton as Media Manager of the club. Still a local lad, born in Ashton, George is a student at UCFB Etihad campus, having just completed his first year of a Football Business and Media course.

George said, 'I have lived near Ikea in Ashton my whole life. I also used to ball boy for Ashton United in the finals that take place at the end of the season. So it just seems natural to continue my progression at the club I’ve known for years. I have done a season with the Robins now, as part of Michael Brown’s media team, and he has been brilliant with helping me progress and learn.'

George has some big shoes to step into but fills them with a similar pedigree. Predecessor Michael Brown, himself a former UCFB Football Business and Media graduate is taking a more strategic role in the club, offering to mentor George and the rest of the media team, whilst they get on with the practical 'day to day stuff'.

Michael said, 'Three years ago I was given a massive opportunity by Ashton United to make a mark in sports media, marketing, and journalism. It was hard work but I found it rewarding and it led directly to my employment with Manchester County FA, and more recently a role with the England Under 20's Communications Team for a tournament in France, and later this month the Under 20's World Cup in Japan and Korea.'

Vice Chairman of Ashton United, Steve Hobson said, 'George has been appointed after 'shining' during his first season with us. He is very keen to learn and works hard to improve his knowledge and experience. With encouragement, and Michael's support behind the scenes, we are sure we have captured yet another top signing. It's not all about what goes on on the field of play! Time for us to set someone else off on their chosen career path'

George concluded, 'It’s a great opportunity to step up as Media Manager for the club and one that I will put all of my effort into. I would like to thank everyone at Ashton United for their support, and particularly Steve Hobson and Michael Brown for their guidance during my first season. We have a great media team with myself, Robbie Coppack, and Daniel Evans and we are still looking for some more faces for the coming season to share the load. Thank you for the opportunity and I can’t wait for next season'.

George is one of many volunteers supported during their time at Hurst Cross by Ashton United in the Community. The club, and its charity partner, are always on the lookout for people wanting to join a progressive non league club and achieve meaningful engagement in volunteering opportunities. These include anything from matchday hospitality, to stewarding, marketing, social media, sports journalism and ground maintenance. If you are interested send your CV to Ashton United by clicking here with a description of what type of role you might be interested in.