All rise for the Rhyl 1879 heroes of 2024-25
CPD Y Rhyl 1879 celebrated a season to remember as the club handed out its annual awards tonight.
The five-year-old phoenix club, which emerged from the ashes of the former Rhyl FC, were crowned Tier 3 Ardal North West League champions last month.
The Lilywhites will now rise to the Tier 2 JD Cymru North, having gained the necessary FAW licence to compete at that level this week.
Tonight’s presentations were in doubt earlier in the day, but the event was announced as back on by teatime, and the mood was understandably buoyant.
2024-25 CLUB AWARDS
Top scorer – Dylan Proctor
Ardal North West top marksman with 28 league goals. Scored 31 in all competitions in 27 matches.
Unstoppable when at his best, netting with some remarkable strikes.
Players Player and Outstanding Performer Award – Billy Holmes
Signed for 1879 from Denbigh Town in November 2024 and has been simply outstanding for the Lilywhites.
His overlapping runs and crosses from left-back, the quality of his deliveries into the box and his all-round defending has made him one of the stars of Ardal North West.
Made 19 appearances for Rhyl, also contributing a couple of vital goals.
Committee’s Player – Paul Fleming
Also landed at the Hops and Barley Community Stadium in November 2024 and proved an inspirational figure, notching eight goals in 18 appearances.
Aged 37, his energy and effort more befits a player half that age.
Fantastic link-man for his fellow forwards, he fittingly scored Rhyl’s final goal of the campaign – a late diving header to seal a 1-0 home win over Llannefydd.
Managers’ Player – Tom Kemp
He credits Rhyl with rekindling his love for football and how the Lilywhites fans took him to their hearts.
Produced some fantastic performances at the back, mainly alongside skipper Reece Fairhurst.
Joined 1879 at the start of 2024-25 and netted nine goals in 36 appearances.
This 30-year-old’s past experience of Cymru Premier and Cymru North football will no doubt stand Rhyl in good stead next season.