SEVENTEEN years of hard work to ensure football is accessible for everyone has been recognised with a Queen's Award for Voluntary Service.

The Hartlepool United Disabled Supporters Association (HUDSA) has been granted the award for its dedication to all Pools fans.

Her Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Durham Sue Snowden joined Darran Hutchinson and Neil Appleyard of HUDSA at The Super 6 Stadium to celebrate their achievement.

Mr Appleyard and Mr Hutchinson were attended a special garden party at Buckingham Palace in June to commemorate the honour before receiving their trophy and a certificate signed by the Queen.

Mrs Snowden said: “For HUDSA to be in place for 17 years and to have grown the way it has is such an achievement and to be here to meet some of the people who are benefitting from the work they do is very special.

“For me, the best thing is that it’s gone beyond football now – the social activities and respite care opportunities for families to have holidays is just marvellous.

“This is the highest award that can be given for voluntary service which makes an extraordinary difference in the community so everyone involved should be very proud."