THE recent Saturday morning fixtures at Crediton Youth FC, gave the club a long overdue opportunity to say a big thank you to two long standing club committee members and ex-officers. 

Stuart and Karen Maule joined the committee a number of years ago as their son Fraser had played his youth football at the club.

Stuart served as treasurer for many years alongside Karen, who took on the roles of secretary and tournament secretary.

They brought great business and administration skills to the roles and have played a major part in the development of the club.

On their entry to the pitches at Lords Meadow, they were welcomed by a guard of honour from the Under 12,13 and 14’s players who had home fixtures that morning.

Presentations of gifts were made by club Chairman Adrian Harvey and Secretary Sabrena Philp in appreciation of all their years of service. These included a framed print of the River Exe at Turf Locks and a photo album of Club Memories and other gifts.

The couple then spent the morning walking around the pitches watching the morning fixtures.

They were treated to some great games, with the Under 14’s winning 2-1 against Exmouth Town, the Under 13’s winning 7-0 against Central Youth Reds and the Under 12’s sharing the points with Stoke Hill in a thrilling 0-0- draw.

With the news filtering through that the only other Crediton Youth side in action that morning, the U16’s had won 7-1 away at Exmouth United capped another fine morning for the club.

Many coaches and committee members attended to say their farewells to the couple who hope to move to Scotland once Covid regulations allow.

Club Chairman, Adrian Harvey added: "Stuart and Karen have been tremendous servants to the club, with most who have benefitted from their hard work and support being totally unaware of how much commitment they both put into the club.

“The committee thanks them for all their hard work, which has taken the club to its established position it finds itself today.

“We wish them both all the very best for the future, and look forward to seeing them back at Lords Meadow sometime soon.”

Martin Daniel