A “loyal and dedicated” Bury AFC fan has been posthumously recognised after receiving an unsung hero award.

Amanda Freeman’s tireless and enthusiastic efforts at Bury AFC have been posthumously recognised with a national award.

Mandy’s death earlier this month caused a wave of sadness at a club where she played a vital role as a #HerGameToo advocate, fundraiser and tunnel steward.

She was the overwhelming winner when votes were counted for the Isuzu Unsung Hero honour at The Non-League Paper’s National Game Awards, in association with Isuzu, a prize awarded to the fan who goes the extra mile behind the scenes.

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Diane Dobson, Mandy’s friend and teammate at Bury AFC Women's Maroons, said: "When it was Bury FC, she used to be a lifelong supporter with her dad.

“She was devastated, as were many people in the town, when Bury FC went.

"But she just wanted to follow football in Bury and when Bury AFC was created, she just wanted to support them.

"She used to be there at the tunnel, greeting players out on a matchday, and she would be there painting and cleaning and selling tickets and fundraising, for Bury AFC men and women.

"In non-league, no club has got a lot of money, so they rely on volunteers to get out there and do the work.

"Fortunately, we have got a lot of people that love the team, it is a labour of love, and they will go out and do it."

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Diane Dobson and Caroline Suttie accepted the award in honour of Mandy, whose legacy will live on at Bury AFC for years to come.

Diane added: "Mandy's smile, her unfailing enthusiasm for everything football and her keenness just to be there, to get involved, will always be remembered.

"She was just such a big character, and everyone will miss her."

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