AS the local football scene prepares for the start of the new season, a Caldicot man is looking forward to a busy couple of years.

Steve Matthews, a retired police officer, has been involved in various committees overseeing the sport in South Wales and his long service and loyalty to football has been rewarded by him being appointed chairman of Gwent County FA.

Matthews, 66, has been involved with football administration for 25 years, having served on the Gwent FA with responsibility for the area’s Welsh League clubs as well as Newport County and admits he is a fan of football, no matter what the level.

“I’m particularly interested in grassroots football,” he said.

“We are particularly lucky in Caldicot because in a very small area we have three levels of Welsh football.

“I can watch Sudbrook CC play in the Gwent County League, turn around and watch an East Gwent Senior League match on the school playing fields and, a short walk away, I can watch Welsh League side Caldicot Town.”

Steve is also vice-chairman of the East Gwent Senior League and vice-chairman of Sudbrook CC.

“I couldn’t do all this without the support of my wife, Elaine,” Steve added.

His term of office at the county FA is for two years.