A MEMBER of the Chester Gladiators coaching team is celebrating landing a major grassroots honour.

Allen Jones has been voted Volunteer Coach of the Year for the Warrington and South Cheshire area by the Rugby Football League.

Allen, who lives near Wrexham, was presented with his award at the recent Super League match between Warrington Wolves and Hull.

It is reward for the work he has done in establishing the Gladiators’ junior section.

This summer the Hare Lane club ran young teams at four age groups, gaining notable victories over more experienced opposition.

Junior coach Allen said: “The juniors’ attitudes have been first class and we have a great set of parents who are so supportive.

“We have a wealth of talent and potential at the club and have already seen six juniors selected for an elite coaching programme with staff coaches at Warrington Wolves.

“I’m also fortunate to have a great team of coaches around me with both Adam Turner and Chris Lloyd Davies making a real contribution to the development of the players.”

Gladiators chairman Jim Green added: “Allen is a real asset to our club and the sport in general.

“He has worked tirelessly to develop our junior section and helped to establish us as one of the leading sports clubs in the area for both senior and junior players.

The Gladiators are the only rugby league club with an established junior section in the Chester and the North Wales area. For further information visit www.chestergladiators.com or contact Paul Foster on 07834 352143.

Under-strength Chester ARLFC fell to a 38-12 defeat at Accrington Panthers in their North West Counties League Division Six clash on Saturday.

Tries from fullback Simon Quinn and prop forward Andy Hill reduced the deficit.

On Saturday Chester host Blackbrook, the club who produced current England and St Helens stars James Graham and James Roby.