Popular Newport County AFC stalwart Norman Parselle delighted with club honour

The ex-player has helped oversee County in the Community become a registered charity with full-time members of staff helping to make a positive impact on people’s lives throughout Gwent.

Newport-born Norman started as County’s community development officer during their first season back in the Football League in 2013 before being appointed head of community.

The County In The Community Trust is one of 72 league clubs affiliated to the Football League Trust, delivering sporting projects and schemes for everyone in Newport, Monmouthshire and Torfaen.

County's much-loved head of community Norman Parselle

Its aim is to deliver and increase participation for people aged between three and 83 years.

The trust delivers football sessions, projects and schemes and it runs the ‘We Wear the Same Shirt’ team which helps people having to cope with mental health issues.

Norman said: “I’m a bit embarrassed you know! But it’s nice that you are well thought of within the club and the community.

“When I first came to the club in 1985, there were some great people here like Alan Wood, John Relish, David Williams and John Macey and we just did our best.

“You played hard, you trained hard and just do your best for people and that’s the way I have been brought up.

“So when people acknowledge that, it is something a bit special and it’s lovely.

“It’s brilliant, it’s smashing. It has been a big surprise and my family will be very happy I’m sure.”

After County favourite, defender Dan Butler picked up the PFA Player in the Community Award in London earlier this month, he paid tribute to Norman.

He said: “Norman Parselle doesn’t get enough credit for what he does for the football club and the community.

“If it wasn’t for him, the whole group wouldn’t be together. I would never have met them so it’s all down to Norman really and I really appreciate it.”