AN award-winning junior football club fears it could become a victim of its own success if it isn't able to recruit more volunteers.

The FA recently named Consett YMCA Juniors the Best Charter Standard Club in County Durham, but organisers fear things won't progress unless the club gets more help.

Club secretary David Pyke said: "The lack of volunteers is a major obstacle.

"We've gone from seven to 30 teams in the past six years, and we need more help with coaching, administration and with the kit and equipment.

"We've got a lot of loyal people at the club, but we could go higher with more.

"Maybe because the quality has improved, people think it's hard to reach that standard, or perhaps they think they haven't got time to go onto the coaching courses.

"But you don't have to have any skills as a footballer, it's mainly just to put together programmes for children to keep them interested and have fun."

Volunteer coaches at the club, which is based at the YMCA in Parliament Street, are expected to take the FA level one coaching badge, the costs of which are met by the club, in return for a commitment to coaching time.

To volunteer, contact Mr Pyke on 07889-419268.