Doughboys boss Stone named NPL Step 4 manager of the month after perfect December

Wellingborough Town boss Jake Stone has been named the Pitching-In Northern Premier League Step 4 manager of the month for December.

The Doughboys boss oversaw a brilliant final month of 2025, with his side not only remaining unbeaten in December, but winning all four of their matches to round off the year in style.

Jake Stone and his managerial team guided Wellingborough Town to four straight wins in December (Picture: Rob Webb)

placeholder image — Jake Stone and his managerial team guided Wellingborough Town to four straight wins in December (Picture: Rob Webb)

Stone was revealed as a nominee earlier in the week, and after a public vote he got the nod ahead of North Ferriby's Chris Bolder, Paul Marshall of Garforth Town and Avro FC's Grant Shenton.

Announcing the news, a statement on the Northern Premier League website read: "With a perfect four wins from four, the Doughboys climbed six places in the table during December, ending the month within three points of the play-offs.

"After an impressive eighth-placed finish on their Step 4 debut last season, Stone's side look well placed to challenge at the right end of the table once again this time around.

"With games to come later this month against the current top two in the NPL Midlands Division - Carlton Town and Belper Town - the Doughboys appear to have found form at the right time."

December began with a 3-0 win over Boldmere St Michael's, before seeing off Mickleover 2-1, Loughborough Students 4-1 and then capping off a great month with a 1-0 Boxing Day derby win at AFC Rushden & Diamonds.

Stone's side began 2026 with a draw against St Neots to stretch their current unbeaten run to six matches, but he will be hoping the can quickly regain their winning touch when they travel to struggling Coventry Sphinx on Saturday (ko 3pm).