THE FA has awarded an Evesham school one of the highest honours in grass-roots football.

St Egwin's Middle School, in Worcester Road, is one of only 42 schools throughout the country to receive the latest regional FA Charter Standard Schools accolades.

The awards, established four years ago, reward schools who work to teach football in the curriculum and during out-of-school hours.

A panel also looks at the competitions the school enters and their links to local charter standard clubs. Other criteria are support to other schools and running young leadership football courses.

St Egwin's are one of 93 charter standard schools in Worcestershire, ranging from first to high Schools.

Andy Norman, Worcestershire FA county development manager, said: "St Egwin's is a worthy winner of the West Midlands regional charter standard award and is providing young people with the chance to enjoy football in a positive, safe and structured environment.

"Among their many footballing achievements this year were winning the Pershore and Evesham District Schools under 11s girls' competition and finishing runners-up in the county finals on goal difference to Witton Middle School.

"Pupils at the school also benefit from having excellent footballing links with Evesham United Juniors, giving children more and improved opportunities to play our national game."