AN ambitious junior football club has received the highest award in the grassroots game for providing excellent opportunities for young players.

Football Association (FA) bosses said Thirsk Falcons Juniors had demonstrated that it was well-organised, safe and offers opportunities for all, had FA-qualified coaches, followed FA Respect policies and codes of conduct, prioritised child welfare and maintained appropriate discipline.

The FA Charter Standard Community Status means the club can use the Three Lions FA crest on its marketing and business materials, which could help boost sponsorship, and demonstrate to parents the club has most advanced level of development and football provision.

The award follows the announcement the club receiving North Riding FA’s Charter Standard Club of the Year 2015 award and becoming the first English club to partner with Celtic FC on their international programme.

Steph Turnbull, football development officer for North Riding FA, said the club had surpassed the standards needed for charter standard and was continuing to develop further.

She said: "This is a huge achievement for the club and one we are thrilled to award.”

Wayne Sowden, chairman of Thirsk Falcons Juniors FC, said the latest award was the result of a concerted drive to improve the club over a few years, the efforts of club secretary Geoff Nash and close working relationships with North Riding FA, Sowerby Gateway, Hambleton District Council, Thirsk Falcons Seniors and sponsors.