Club legend. Record breaker. Promotion dream chaser. Gary Lockyer has etched his name in Ashford United history, but his sights are set on an even bigger prize for the Nuts & Bolts. Can this local hero lead his team to the promised land this season?

Captain Gary Lockyer, a revered figure at Ashford United, has firmly cemented his place in the club’s illustrious history by becoming their all-time leading goalscorer, a monumental achievement that has now fueled an even greater ambition: firing the Nuts & Bolts to a well-deserved promotion. His dedication and prolific scoring ability have made him a local hero, inspiring both teammates and fans with his unwavering commitment to the club’s success.

The historic moment arrived when Lockyer netted his 85th goal for Ashford United during a challenging 3-1 away defeat at Faversham, drawing him level with the legendary Sean Welford. This significant milestone was not merely a personal triumph but a powerful statement of his enduring impact on the team, demonstrating his consistent prowess in front of goal throughout his extensive career at Homelands.

Beyond his goalscoring exploits, Lockyer’s ambition extends to breaking another long-standing club record. With an impressive 141 appearances already under his belt, he is now setting his sights on surpassing Pat Kingwell’s record of 181 games for the reformed club, further solidifying his status as one of Ashford United’s most loyal and enduring players. These individual accolades serve as testament to his longevity and continued contribution.

Personal achievements clearly hold profound significance for the 32-year-old striker, whose remarkable talent has previously garnered national recognition. Last season, he famously secured the prestigious Golden Ball award for finishing as the top scorer in the FA Cup, showcasing his ability to perform on bigger stages and underlining his quality beyond the local non-league football scene.

Reflecting on his record-breaking feat, Lockyer expressed immense pride, particularly as a local lad who has grown up supporting the club. “I’m pleased and I’m proud to have done it, especially being a local boy,” he stated, simultaneously revealing his next personal target: reaching 100 Ashford goals by the end of the current season. However, his ultimate desire remains firmly fixed on the collective, declaring, “I want to get that promotion that Ashford so deserve.”

Lockyer’s journey with Ashford United began in 2011, at the tender age of 17, following the dissolution of Ashford Town, marking the first of several spells at Homelands. This deep-rooted connection to the town and its footballing heritage has imbued his career with a unique sense of purpose, making his current achievements all the more meaningful for the club’s faithful supporters.

While he candidly admits that, had he remained with the original Ashford Town, he would almost certainly have eclipsed Dave Arter’s nearly 200-goal record, Lockyer harbors no regrets. The Ashford United record is unequivocally his, and the emotional resonance of that achievement was palpable when he scored against Margate, helping the Nuts & Bolts fight back in the game.

The pride in his voice is evident when he recounts his footballing journey, even referencing an opportunity to play with idols in Vietnam as a Manchester United fan. Yet, the deep satisfaction of breaking the record goalscorer for his hometown club, Ashford United, clearly transcends other experiences. His drive and passion are a constant source of inspiration, particularly for the younger players in the non-league football circuit.

As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Captain Lockyer to see if he can translate his individual brilliance into collective glory. His relentless pursuit of excellence and his clear vision for the club’s future position him as a pivotal figure in Ashford United’s quest for promotion, embodying the spirit and determination required to succeed in competitive Kent sport.