VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH- MANAGER OF THE MONTH

Phil Parkinson (Altrincham)

As a Sports Science lecturer, Phil Parkinson knows it’s not just about someone’s strength of character - it’s their strength of mind, too.

After a September which saw Altrincham defeated in three of their four National League North games, the Robins boss and his players certainly summoned something from within.

October was a totally different story as four wins from five cast aside concerns after re-joining the division following on from their Step Three title success.

Victories in the league against Nuneaton Borough, Alfreton Town and Ashton United were supplemented nicely by FA Cup success against Bradford (Park Avenue) - even if they did fall short in the following round at Stockport County.

They are now only a win away from a play-off place as Alty attempt to make it back-to-back promotions. Ambitious? Well, Parkinson is all about the power of positivity.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH - PLAYER OF THE MONTH

Gary Roberts (Chester)

Chester have looked unstoppable in October and it was no small part down to the exceptional performances of Gary Roberts.

The influential midfielder more than played his part as the Blues continued their march to the upper echelons of the National League North.

The 31-year-old helped his side to maximum points in their three league games against the likes of Ashton United, Hereford and Alfreton Town.

He almost single-handedly took all three points for the Blues against Alfreton – scoring a superb hat-trick, with the third of his goals coming in the dying seconds to snatch victory at the Swansway.

That continued a barnstorming run that stretches back to the beginning of September in the league and after a shaky start, Chester and Roberts find themselves within one point of Chorley at the summit.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH- VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH

Bradley Saxton (York City)

Bradley Saxton has won Volunteer of the Month for York City in the National League North.

The 19-year-old is a proud supporter of the club and has volunteered in the shop for some time. He is always willing to help out wherever he can, even becoming ‘Yorkie The Lion’ at a recent Open Day.

In October, he excelled himself with his contribution to a special evening organised by the club for its supporters ‘Question of City Sport’.

This was not only Bradley’s idea, but he spent many hours of his time preparing for the event, drafted all the questions, prepared and edited videos for ‘Mystery Guests’ and ‘What Happened Next?’ and looked after the technology on the night.

Hosted by a former player, Jon Parkin and featuring teams of players and supporters, the event raised vital money for the club’s Academy and Foundation.