CHIPPENHAM SUNDAY LEAGUE: BAR OC's veteran goalkeeper John Hampshire is the first winner of the Gazette and Herald Safe Hands Award.

Hampshire, 43, has kept three clean sheets and conceded nine goals in as many games in Division Four of the Chippenham Sunday League.

The shot-stopper, from Eastleigh Close, Devizes, has been a left back and only switched roles this season.

He said: "I'm extremely surprised to get this award as it is my first season back as a keeper.

"I used to play in goal but have not since the 2001 season. I have had a good season so far but am a bit rusty. I have made one or two mistakes."

The keeper's exploits have saved Bar OC on more than one occasion, and he made a last minute reaction save to keep the score at 1-1 against high flying AFC Calne on Sunday.

Hampshire says he switched back to goalkeeping because he is feeling his age. "My legs are getting on so I have to play in goal," he said.

Manager Phil Oliver is happy to have Hampshire between the posts this season.

He said: "He is an experienced and tidy keeper, he is Mr Reliable and makes few mistakes."

Meanwhile, Alistair Belcher had to come out of retirement and go between the sticks for North Bradley on Sunday. Belcher, 35, was asked to put on the gloves as regular keeper Julian Hooper phoned in sick.

The Wiltshire U18 and Bath City youth coach had a successful time as his side won 3-1.

Belcher, from Trowbridge, said: "We were down to our bare bones so I had to help the boys out, I had an enjoyable game and did not have much to do."