Two of the winners were Shaun Rotherham from Winstanley, Wigan, and Daniel Whitehead from Horwich, who were nominated by the Lancashire FA for their voluntary efforts in developing grassroots football in the county.

Shaun Rotherham is a governor at St Aidan’s School and currently coaches three teams at Winstanley Warriors JFC. Over the last 12 months Shaun has achieved The FA Level 2 coaching qualification to ensure best practice in coaching for the children and has also secured sponsorship and grants to enable other parents to obtain their FA qualifications and support the game.

Daniel Whitehead is just 15 years old and has been working with Horwich St Mary’s JFC since the age of seven, playing a key part in the after-school training for the team. He completed a refereeing course two years ago and, he is now looking to get his FA Level 1 coaching qualification as he approaches his 16th birthday next month.

Brian Barwick, Chief Executive of The FA, congratulated all the winners and told TheFA.com: “The development of the leagues and clubs around the country very much depend upon people like Shaun and Daniel who give so much of their time and support. 

"Without volunteers, the game at the grassroots level which is enjoyed by millions would struggle and The FA recognises the valuable contribution volunteers make to the game and their local communities."

Football Volunteer Workforce Winners 2006

Shaun Cletheroe Mulbarton Wanderers and Belles
Derrick Senior Mostyn Rangers
George Carney Brighton Electricity
Bill Blackwell Bealonians FC
Shaun Rotherham Winstanley Warriors
Ron Tapp South Park Rangers
Daniel Whitehead Horwich St. Marys
Rhonda Dodds Percy Hedley Panthers
Nick Coughlan Glenco Youth FA