Gary Brabin has been named the Blue Square Premier 'Manager of the Year'.

The awards ceremony on Saturday evening followed the Conference Annual General Meeting for officials of clubs in the Blue Square Premier, North and South.

During the AGM, Luton Town, Chester City, AFC Wimbledon, Hayes & Yeading, Tamworth and Gateshead were accepted into the Conference Premier following their respective relegations and promotions.

The maximum number of short-term loans has been increased from eight to twelve, and the fixtures for next season are due to be announced on Friday 3rd July or earlier if possible.

Speaking about his award, Gary commented, "I'm delighted and very proud to get something like this in my first year as a manager, but I'd gladly swap it for promotion.

"There are some good young managers in this division who have a bright future in the game and some good, competitive football clubs, so I'm really honoured to receive the award but obviously still very disappointed about Wembley."

Brabin drove straight to the AGM in Stratford-upon-Avon from Wales, where he has been on a course to complete his UEFA 'A' licence, and he admitted his first season in management has been a steep learning curve.

"I think no matter who you are, even Alex Ferguson, you learn from your experiences every day and it all makes you a better manager. No one can teach you everything about the challenges and pitfalls you'll face as a manager every single day.

"I've been around the game long enough to know that and I wouldn't have taken the step into management if I wasn't prepared for that. I've learned a lot this year and I think that goes for every manager. There were some big names on the course I've been on and that was a good experience too, working with people like that on a very, very intense course."

Extending the recognition to others at the club, he added, "I'm delighted with the group of lads I've had this season. They've have been different class and they've given me their all throughout the season. They've been brilliant and so have my staff - Greg Reid, Bimmo, Cardy - and everyone has helped and backed me this season."

Chairman George Rolls, who represented the club alongside Secretary Wayne Purser at the AGM, added, "We're delighted for Gary that he is receiving this award, which also reflects on the club as a whole and everyone who has worked so hard this season.

"He is a bright young manager and the board have backed him to the hilt when he has needed it, and put their hands in their pockets to bring players like Scott Rendell on loan and Lee Phillips."

Rolls also revealed that the future of broadcaster Setanta TV was discussed at the AGM. There are reports of a rescue package for Setanta, but talks are ongoing and Conference officials urged clubs to act with caution and not budget for TV income for next season.

Highlights of the award ceremony will be shown on the Blue Square round-up programme on Friday evening.

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