A former sports editor at a weekly newspaper is set to publish a new book about his adventures as a football reporter later this month.

Simon Mapletoft, left, who was sports editor at the Mansfield Chad and the voice of Mansfield Town throughout the Nineties, launches his new book ‘Meatpies & Microphones – The Adventures of a Football Reporter’ on 31 October.

The book shares a revealing, humorous insight into his life as a football reporter in the 80s and 90s, following Mansfield Town for BBC Radio Nottingham, the Chad, the Nottingham Evening Post and Football Post.

Simon, who has reported on around 650 matches, recalls the influence of his Chad predecessor Stan Searl, as well as working with six different managers at Mansfield Town over two eventful decades.

“Ever since I hung up my microphone in 2002 it has been my intention to commit so many wonderful stories and memories to print,” he told the Chad.

As well as many hilarious stories from behind the scenes, he also nominates his 10 most memorable matches – and 10 of the most forgettable.

“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,” added Simon.

Simon worked for the Chad for more than 10 years from 1982 and has been a presenter on the Sky Sports channel At The Races since 1994.

He will also be officially launching the book at the Kevin Bird Suite at Mansfield Town’s One Call Stadium on 7 November. Tickets for the night are limited, cost £15 a head including a two-course dinner.

Books will be on sale on the night. For tickets and further information contact Mansfield Town on 01623 482482.

‘Meatpies & 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 31 October.