BROMSGROVE Town FC's hard work in the community was recognised by Worcestershire FA at a special awards ceremony.

Secretary Geoff Brunt accepted the FA Charter Standard Club of the Year award on behalf on the club from Regional Coach Development Manager Andy Poole at University College Worcester.

The club impressed the FA with its strong links to local schools and the way it has provided coaching and other opportunities for local people in order to earn the award.

Development officer Brian McGuinness said: "This award is a huge lift for the club. This club has rapidly changed from being a family friendly football club to one that is involved in training and developing coaches and giving volunteers the opportunity to work behind the scenes at a football club.

"We also have linked up successfully with several schools, including Waseley Hills High School, and have taken the players on trips abroad."

Bromsgrove Town, which has 22 teams playing from junior to senior age levels, was also upgraded from Charter Standard to a Development Club in recognition of its dedication to training. Now the club is aiming to reach the highest level possible and earn Community Status.

McGuinness said: "If the club obtained Community Status that would be an amazing feat as only a few clubs in the whole of the West Midlands have it. Community Status would mean Bromsgrove Town really could become one of the region's leading club's."