The Manchester County Football Association has awarded Pendlebury United Football Club the prestigious FA Charter Standard Club award for grassroots football.

The FA Charter Standard programme, supported by FA partner McDonald’s, was established six years ago and helps clubs to improve standards of coaching, administration, player development and child protection. The FA Charter Standard award is presented to clubs like Pendlebury United who have raised their standards in these areas and lead the field in promoting best football practice, both on and off the pitch, in grassroots football.

Chris Martin of Pendlebury United Football Club said: ‘‘This award is the culmination of a lot of hard work both on and off the field since the club was formed in October 2005.

“Thanks has to go to all players, managers and parents who have helped ‘the fastest growing football club in Salford’ to achieve the high standards set out by The FA.

“Particular thanks go to Jon Berry whose tireless efforts have been the main driving force behind the club’s new ‘go forward’ attitude. It is also important to realise that the club now needs to move to the next level and can’t just rest on its laurels, and together we look forward to a bright future for all at the club.

“The club would like to thank Sir Alex Ferguson for agreeing to present the award and for everybody at Manchester United for making the experience so special for both players and committee who attended. ''

Andy Basterfield, Club Development Officer for the Manchester County Football Association added: “The FA Charter Standard award acknowledges the excellent support that Pendlebury United Football Club is providing within the local community and its efforts to provide opportunities for players to develop their skills and play football in a safe and positive environment.

“Manchester County FA is committed to raising the standards of football at grassroots level and the work and achievements of clubs like Pendlebury United Football Club make this possible."

Manchester FA’s commitment to the Charter Standard programme is also evident thanks to an evening entitled ‘Get The Status - Get it Now,’ an evening which has been arranged for all non Charter Standard Clubs within Manchester to attend, and allow them to work with County FA Development staff to work towards gaining the Charter Standard Award.

The evening is on Wednesday 26 March at the Manchester County FA.
For further information around the Charter Standard Programme, and the ‘Get The Status - Get it Now’ evening, please contact Andy Basterfield on 0161 604 7632.