A vicar who is passionate about football has been asked to become a chaplain for a football team.

The Reverend Nick Smith, vicar of St Marks Church - a wayward goal kick from Top Field - has now also been appointed chaplain for Hitchin Town FC.

The position involves offering pastoral and spiritual support to people of all faiths and those of no faith and will offer advice in a sensitive, non-judgmental way to players, staff and fellow supporters.

While we all know seven days without prayer makes one weak, it's not a case of choosing the Bread of Life or you're toast - as good-natured Nick explains: "It's a privilege to be asked to become Hitchin's Chaplain.

"Sport is a great outlet for people to let out their emotions safely. But sometimes the cheering and shouting on a Saturday afternoon isn't enough for that.

"Life can be tough – especially at the moment – and we all need to think about our wellbeing and take care of ourselves.

"Sometimes having somebody to talk to can help with that, so if anyone – fan, player, or staff – thinks they might benefit from a (confidential) chat with me, for any reason, my door is always open to a fellow Yellow."

While there is no confirmation that the lights on Noah's Ark were floodlights, in the past there have been strong connections between faith and football.

For example, many prominent English Premier League clubs started life as church sides. Aston Villa were founded by members of a Wesleyan Chapel, while Manchester City were set up by the churchwardens of St Mark's, West Gorton, as a way to combat roguish behaviour.

While, more recently, a Sunderland vicar formed the first Church of England football team last year.

Passionate football fan Nick added: "I've been in South London for the last three years and largely unable to get to games - so when the role came up as vicar of St Mark's I leaped like a proverbial salmon at the chance to come home.

"I've been delighted to discover that many of my congregation are not just faithful Christians but faithful Canaries as well!"

While God did tell Adam and Eve to go forth and multiply, and Job cursed the day he was born, fervent fan Nick does admit his use of language is sometimes peppered with the odd expletive when watching the (al)mighty Canaries play.

Recalling derby clashes with Hitchin's near neighbours Arlesey Town he says: "We had an incredible season in 2009/10, and I was devastated when we lost to Slough in the play-offs.

"I was at nearly every home game over the next few seasons - and many away games too - with my dad Mick and brother Rick.

"I remember the incredible atmosphere for that derby game against Arlesey, and was one of the fans behind the goal at the Lancaster Road end when the Arlesey players came to celebrate in front of our fans.

"I don't think I've ever felt such feelings of rage in my life, and I may have shouted a few things that would make my bishop blush."

But, he adds, in confession, that "play-off revenge against Slough and victory in the final over Daventry put me in a better mood..."

With the early weather forecast for Hitchin's next game set to be God reigns and Son shines over the Canaries occasionally wayward flock, Hitchin's new chaplain says you'll usually find him behind the goal the Canaries are attacking, at the St Mark's vicarage round the corner from Top Field, or you can get in touch via his St Mark's email which is [email protected].

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