CREDITON Youth FC’s Chairman, Martin Daniel, was officially recognised for his voluntary work to local football by the Football Association at the annual awards ceremony held at Wembley Stadium prior to the Community Shield match between Leicester City and Manchester United.

Martin had previously been presented the award for “Outstanding Contribution to Community Football” by Devon County FA and was one of six finalists present at the ceremony for its top award “The Peoples Award”.

Martin has been a stalwart of Morchard Bishop Football Club for the past 20 years and a manager for Crediton Youth FC for more than five years.

He has held office of Chairman of Crediton Youth FC for two years, during which time he has seen more than a 30 per cent increase in members with teams from Under Seven’s to Under 18s, plus three girls teams.

Two years ago he introduced the FA Coaches’ mentor scheme which is designed to raise the standard of the coaching in the club.

Martin’s wife, Sally Anne, and son, Edward were unable to attend the presentation dinner as they were attending her parents’ Golden Wedding anniversary celebrations.

However, he was supported by his son, Oliver, and Club representatives, Stuart Maule and Mike Edworthy.

Ten further club representatives of Crediton Youth and Morchard Bishop FC also made their way to Wembley to watch the match which was won 2-1 by Manchester United.

Various awards were presented by such football legends as Pat Jennings, Ryan Giggs, Martin Keown and Emile Heskey.

The top award of the Peoples Award was presented by World Cup legend, Sir Geoff Hurst, and went to Andrew Lee Martin of East Riding FA, who sadly died earlier in the year.

Whilst making the award, Sir Geoff said that the level of dedication, commitment and sacrifice that the nominees had shown was outstanding and any one of the finalists would be a worthy winner.

Martin said that it was a fantastic honour that doesn’t come to people like him very often and it was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to attend such a prestigious event.

Alan Quick