Worksop Town getting some heavenly support from chaplain Alex

As a Geordie, it’s not surprising that Church of England curate Alex Shiells is a football fan, but it’s not just the Newcastle United result that interests him.
Alex Shiells, Worksop Town FC's club chaplainAlex Shiells, Worksop Town FC's club chaplain
Alex Shiells, Worksop Town FC's club chaplain

As the chaplain of Worksop Town, he listens out to see how the Tigers have done in the BetVictor Northern Premier League South East Division.

This role gives him the opportunity to combine his life’s calling to the church with his love of his community and his admiration for the beautiful game.

Alex, who is based at Christ Church in Worksop and St Luke’s, in Shireoaks & Rhodesia, said: “It’s a privilege to be involved with a staple of our community and the fourth oldest football club in the world.

“At every game and event I’ve been at I’ve been welcomed by fans who are passionate about their town and club.

“As we look around us and see problems with the big money nature of the modern game, it’s a joy to be involved in local, non-League football and to see the impact that football has at grassroots levels.

“I’d encourage everyone to get support their local side, and to come and enjoy the spectacular atmosphere at Sandy Lane.”

As the chaplain, Alex's role is to support the players, staff and fans, and to be a confidential listening ear.

He is a familiar figure at the ground on Sandy Lane and attends most Tigers home games, working hard to win the confidence of the players and fans.

Alex took over the role from the Rev Luiz Lima, who is the vicar at Christ Church, Worksop, and St Luke’s, Shireoaks & Rhodesia.

Alex continued: “They are very welcoming and I think that is partly to do with the work that Luiz has done.

“I am finding my feet and beginning to have conversations with people and offering support and a listening ear.

“The club is well supported and is very important to the town, it is a valuable part of the community and I’m excited to be involved.”

Alex will be back supporting the Tigers again at their next home game, although that isn’t until April 4 when they welcome Stocksbridge Park Steels – famously a former club of currently Leicester City star Jamie Vardy – to Sandy Lane.

All of Worksop’s games in March are away from home.