There are people who pass through football clubs, and then there are those who become part of the very fabric of them. Andrew ‘Shep’ Shepherd belongs firmly in the latter category.

As he prepares for his 45th season with Campion AFC, Shep stands as one of the most dedicated servants the club has ever known. From the early 1980s right through to today, his name has become synonymous with everything the club represents.

His journey with Campion began when he took on the role of manager, but that was only the start. Over the decades, Shep has worn just about every hat imaginable: physio, waterboy, kit and equipment manager, and now club treasurer. Whether he’s working quietly behind the scenes or making his presence felt on the touchline with that unmistakable voice urging the lads on, his commitment has never wavered.

Few people can claim to have represented a club across five different decades. Shep has done exactly that, standing shoulder to shoulder with Campion through the good times and the challenging ones. He’s been there for the club’s time in the West Riding County Amateur League, the move into the North West Counties League, and now in the Northern Counties East League. Through every step of that journey from pure amateur football to where the club stands today, Shep has been a constant.

What makes his contribution even more special is that his support extends far beyond matchdays. Through his company, Kalcrest Care, he continues to back the club in practical ways that make a real difference behind the scenes.

Clubs like Campion simply don’t survive - let alone progress - without people like Shep. His influence on the team’s development over the years has been immense, and the entire Campion family owes him a debt that can never fully be repaid.

So here’s to you, Shep. Thank you for everything you’ve given, and for everything you continue to give. Here’s to season number 45.