A DRUMMER who is the beating heart of a Wrexham AFC matchday is the latest recipient of a prize honouring the community's greatest heroes.

If you've been to a game at the STok Cae Ras in recent times, then there's a good chance you will have heard the sound of Mannie Thomas' drum.

The 17-year-old can be found and heard time and time in the University End stand leading the songs and chants that creating the electric atmosphere at the Reds' home ground.

In addition, Mannie spends hours travelling up and down the country supporting the 'Red Army' travelling to grounds with his drum, directing thousands of Wrexham fans into song.

Mannie plays a significant role in drumming up support and making the crowd back the team on the road to success. Many fans feel he is a hero and works tirelessly every match.

So perhaps unsurprisingly, this week, Mannie has become the latest recipient of the coveted F Jones Initiative award.

The prizes recognise those who contribute most to the Wrexham community and were originally established by Wrexham Lager and F Jones Food Service.

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The F Jones Initiative team said: "Mannie not only marches to the beat of his own drum, but creates the beat for Wrexham AFC fans at games.

"Mannie has been a Wrexham fan since 2012 and a season ticket holder coming up to nine years.

"His older brother William and his friends had the idea of creating a more established atmosphere in the stadium, as a fanatical fan culture was increasing. Mannie and William, who have always been passionate and fanatical with their support for Wrexham AFC had their idea accepted at the club by the supporters trust.

"William was able to get a drum and played it until 2017, when he decided Mannie should have a go. This was at the Dagenham game and Mannie was just 11, the fan group let him have a little trial for a few games and ever since he’s been playing the drum via the Wrexham 12th man group, following Wrexham up and down the country with the drum."

Mannie’s other big interest is Athletics and he is now in his second season with Wrexham and recently competed for North Wales. Last month, he won the U20 100 meters, so is now the North Wales champion.

Aside from sports, he works at the Hickory's Smokehouse in Wrexham and - due to how important he is to Wrexham's crowd - they decided to give him every Saturday off so that he can go and set the atmosphere alight!

Keep an eye out for Mannie this season as Wrexham move on up to life in EFL League One.