FORMER Prestatyn Town manager Neil Gibson has paid tribute to skipper Dave Hayes after he announced his retirement.

The gifted defender, who has been at the Motion Finance Stadium for 15 years, will lead his side out for the final time against Llandudno in their final JD Welsh Premier League clash of the season on Friday (7.30pm) before they return to the second tier.

Gibson, said: “It’s a sad day for everyone who loves the football club, because Hayesie is one of a very few number of people who are synonymous with Prestatyn Town the success it has achieved over the past 15 years.

“Hayesie epitomises everything I wanted Prestatyn to be and what I wanted it to look like, someone with a real affinity and connection to the club who could lead on the pitch and represent the fans on the pitch.

“I've known Dave for nearly 30 years and it's remarkable that we went from young kids watching, because his dad was playing and my dad was groundsman to sharing a 14-year relationship as teammates and friends at our home town club enjoying such a special period in the club's history.”

The Seasiders legend joined the club from nearby rivals Rhyl, and guided Town to the most successful period in their history by a considerable margin.

His crowning glory was lifting the Welsh Cup in 2013 when Town defeating Bangor City 3-1 after extra time, and Hayes leaves the club after making more than 200 WPL appearances.

“There's hardly been a game in the last five years where Hayesie has been fully fit but it's never stopped him pulling on his boots and giving everything for this club,” added Gibson.

“His professionalism and always wanting to improve and learn to the very last game I managed him, is a testament to him.

“My personal favourite is the moment myself, Hayesie, Mike Parker and Jack Lewis shared in our own huddle on the pitch in Latvia minutes after winning our first European tie. That was special. The journey from tier three of Welsh football to winning in Europe he was there every step of the way.

“I'm sure Hayesie could still play on but I totally respect his decision. It won't be the same and will take some time looking at a Prestatyn team sheet without the name David Hayes being next to the number 4.”