NORTH END stadium boss Dave Bailey lives in Blackburn and was even offered a job by the town's premiership team.

But it was definitely out of the question for the 32-year-old avid Preston fan who said: "I just couldn't do it."

Having been born and bred in Preston, family man Dave was offered a much more tempting proposition - the chance to run the stadium at his favourite club.

Now, happily settled after almost two years at Deepdale, Dave said: "I was approached to be stadium manager and I just leapt at the chance.

"There's no way I could've opted to work at Ewood Park - especially on the Saturdays when North End are at home."

Handyman Dave was offered his post after 12 years as a steward at Deepdale.

After the Tom Finney Stand was built club bosses wanted someone to maintain it and keep it as a showpiece for the ground.

And after working for a sub-contractor monitoring fire safety systems at North End and Bamber Bridge heating giants Baxi Dave, who plays football as well golf when he has the spare time, seemed the natural choice.

He took on the keys to the stadium and hasn't looked back since in a job which he admits is hardwork but enjoyable as it's also his hobby as well.

But does Dave believe there's a bright future ahead for the club: "As a fan I want success on the pitch as well. This is a big club and everything is geared up for success. We're all part of the same team."

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