Manchester County Football Association has awarded AFC Oldham 2005 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 those clubs like AFC Oldham 2005 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.

Andy Rowlandson of AFC Oldham, said: "This award is the result of a lot of hard work both on and off the field by a lot of people, in particular Carol Widdowson and Bob Rowlandson.

"The Club was formed in 2005 and extra thanks has to go to all players, managers and parents who have helped to develop the Club so strongly. The next step for the Club is to secure our own facilities.

"The club would like to thank Stockport County’s Matty McNeil for presenting the award to AFC Oldham, along with Manchester Football Association’s Club Development Officer Andy Basterfield."

For further information around the Charter Standard Programme, as well as the next ‘Get the Status-Get it Now’ evening please contact Andy Basterfield on 0161 604 7632 or Andrew.basterfield@manchesterfa.com