Happy birthday to former Holywell Town attacking midfielder Graeme Williams

Today (December 8) marks the 34th birthday of a player who was a crucial mainstay during a tremendous era for Holywell Town.

Graeme Williams was a key man when the Wellmen made history in 2013-14 by becoming the only third-tier team in history to reach the Welsh Cup semi-finals.

And the following season he was prominent again as Holywell claimed the treble of Welsh Alliance League title, FAW Trophy and Barritt Cup.

Graeme made well in excess of 200 appearances for the Halkyn Road club. An attacking midfielder, he netted 11 goals in 2012-13 and added another six the following campaign. He was a consistent marksman in every season he represented the team.

He also wore the colours Mostyn and Greenfield, but is best known for his performances during a golden period for Holywell.

His manager at Halkyn Road, Johnny Haseldin, said the following: “Graeme was one of my first signings when I took over as manager in 2011 and he stayed with me till the year I stepped down in 2018.

“I remember people telling me he wasn’t good enough for the Welsh Alliance but every time he stepped up through the leagues he proved people wrong and looked comfortable at every level.

“He was a box-to-box midfielder with a tireless work ethic that always gave 100%. His ability to win the ball back and skip past men in midfield was priceless for the team and the way we wanted to play.

“He also had great ability to time late runs into the box which saw him pick up more than his fair share of goals.

“Competition for places in our midfield was fierce as the team evolved but never did he ever ask to leave.

“He always rolled his sleeves up and forced his way into the team and that was a great testament to his character.”

Graeme’s teenage daughter Leah is also a footballer with Holywell Girls and Women FC.

Like her dad, she is a determined, strong forward-orientated player who is making good progress in the game.

Happy birthday Graeme.