Biography

I have lived in the village since 1982, and like so many parents I started with the club when my son was involved as an U16 player. While coaching the U16's I became involved with the club committee, then chaired by Eddie Groody, now our President. I was elected Vice Chairman in 2000, and became involved with helping to run the club.
At this stage the youth sides were just starting. Money was found by the main club to help with kits and balls, and encourage the development of the BLAFC youth sides. The rest . . . as they say, is history.
In 2001 Eddie Groody stepped down as Chairman, a role he had so successfully filled for 150 years (he said it seemed that long). At the next AGM I had the honour of being appointed Chairman, and having the unenviable task of following in Eddie's footsteps.
I also assisted Neil Harper for several seasons, with the men's side, then playing in Junior football in the Taunton & District Saturday League. During this time we won the Saturday KO Cup, and in 2003 the First Division, which allowed us to successfully apply for Senior football. The Senior side has now moved on to much greater success.
The Ladies section, lead by Julie Bowker, have also become an integral part of our structure as we grew, and along with all our youth teams, continue to bring success at all levels of the club.
One of our greatest "off field" achievements has been the project that became our new changing rooms, and something that brings great pride to all who were involved.
I once achieved the Junior Team Managers badge (that dates me), and also ran a very successful BLAFC Sunday side, which gained promotion year on year, but folded as we went Senior.
I have assisted with the Taunton Sunday League Mavis Tate representative side, and we were able to complete a hat trick of Mavis Tate Cup wins. The first success, was the first time the Taunton Sunday League had won the trophy in 30 years.
For a few seasons I published the very popular "The Bishops" magazine, but it was a huge commitment, and sadly fell by the wayside.
IIn my role as Chairman, I am involved in many areas of the club, and take an overview of many of the activities going on. I put the clubs, continued success down to the great team we have off the field, who all continue to work very hard in the club's interest.
I am married to Helen, and already have one grandson.
My other interests include our pets, travel, music, reading, film and whatever else I can find time for.
Favourite Team : Do not have one, support England and enjoy watching good players and teams play well.
Favourite Player : Diego Maradonna (I know, but apart from the debacle of '82, he was a special talent, which we may never see again)
Three Best Footballing Moments : Watching Zico play at the Maracana Stadium in Brasil
Watching England win the World Cup in black and white in 1966
Watching England win the World Cup again in my lifetime !