Former Chad Sports Editor Simon Mapletoft set to release his ‘adventures in sport’ book

The book offers a revealing and humorous insight into Simon’s life as a reporter and commentator, following the Stags for BBC Radio Nottingham, the Chad, the Nottingham Evening Post and Football Post.

In ‘Meatpies & Microphones’, Simon recalls the influence of his legendary predecessor Stan Searl and what it was like to work with no fewer than six different managers at Field Mill over two eventful decades.

As well as many hilarious stories from behind the scenes, he also nominates his 10 most memorable matches – and 10 of the most forgettable – and reveals his all-time Stags Dream Team.

Though largely centred around Mansfield Town, the book also re-visits Simon’s own sporting youth and pays tribute to many of the colourful characters from the football grounds and cricket squares of North Nottinghamshire.

Simon, who worked for the Chad for over 10 years from 1982, and is now a presenter on the Sky Sports racing channel At The Races, says: “Ever since I hung up my microphone in 2002 it has been my intention to commit so many wonderful stories and memories to print.

“We all love a slice of nostalgia and this book is a journey back in time that I know many local sports fans will relate to.”

Simon appeared on the ‘Friday Night Football Forum’ on Mansfield 103.2 last week and will be on BBC Radio Nottingham’s ‘Pre-Match’ from 6pm on Friday, 1st November.

He will also be officially launching the book at the Kevin Bird Suite in the One Call Stadium on Thursday, 7th November.

Tickets for the night are limited, cost £15 a head including a two-course dinner.

‘An Evening With Simon Mapletoft, with Tony Delahunty of 103.2 co-hosting,will feature special guests including former Stags favourite Phil Stant. Books will be on sale on the night. For tickets and further information contact Mansfield Town on 01623 482482.

‘Meapties & Microphones’, price £14.99, is in hardback format and will be available from Mansfield Town Football Club, WH Smith in Mansfield and on line at simonmapletoft.com (free postage and packaging), from 31st October.