FA Chair Debbie Hewitt MBE has paid tribute to a grassroots club in Manchester who have been awarded the prestigious King’s Award for Voluntary Service.
AFC Urmston Meadowside (Meds) are an England Football accredited club in Greater Manchester, and have been recognised with the honour, regarded as the equivalent of an MBE for volunteer groups, following the work done to benefit their local community.
Originally formed in 1977 with just one team, Meds has grown significantly over the past 47 years and now boasts 81 teams, over 1200 players and close to 235 volunteers. This includes 16 girls’ and women’s’ teams, a Pan Disability section and a thriving youth forum.
“We are delighted to hear that AFC Urmston Meadowside have been awarded the prestigious King’s Award for Voluntary Service and we send our congratulations and appreciation to everyone that has contributed to this well-deserved accolade,” said Debbie.
“As the highest level of award that can be given to a collection of volunteers in this country, it reminds us of the unwavering dedication of the volunteers who make grassroots football happen every week, right across the country.”
Speaking on behalf of the club, vice chair and head of football development Jimmy Khan said: “This is the highest honour given to volunteer groups across the UK, and we are humbled to join this select group.
“This incredible recognition is a testament to the unwavering dedication of every single person who contributes to the running of our club – from our coaches, managers and admin support to our grounds team, kit washers and the many volunteers who ensure the children make it to games and training sessions year after year.
“None of this remarkable progress would have been possible without the dedication and selflessness of our volunteers, whose commitment continues to inspire us all.
“Receiving the King’s Award for Voluntary Service not only shines a spotlight on the invaluable contributions of our volunteers but also demonstrates the positive impact grassroots football can have on our community. This honour reinforces our long-standing commitment to providing a safe, friendly and well-organised environment for children and adults alike to enjoy football.
“We hope that this accolade will inspire more people to volunteer and support the club, as we continue to grow. In addition, we are seeking to raise funds to further develop our facilities, enabling us to offer even better opportunities to our local community and ensure we remain a cornerstone of grassroots football in Urmston.”
