EVESHAM United has become the first club in Worcestershire to achieve Community Club status.

Historically, the club didn't possess a junior section but, in 1994, current junior football co-ordinator, Simon Parry, started coaching at Bengeworth First School and a junior team was formed.

Coaching then expanded and a junior club was formed called Evesham North End. In April 2000, North End came under the wing of Evesham United and the junior section was formed.

Currently the club boasts an excellent junior section and run boys and mixed teams at every age group from Under-7 to Under-16 in addition to a youth team.

WFA Development Officers, Andy Nor-man and Julie Leroux, have worked closely with the club over the past 20 months and, at the start of this season, the club formed their first ever women's team that competes in the newly formed Kidderminster County League.

In addition, thanks to the great efforts of Simon Parry, two Under-11 girls mini soccer teams were formed both of whom now play regularly in the Mercian Elgar League. An Under-13 team have also started to play friendly matches.

A special presentation will take place at the home Dr Martens League Western Division match against Bedworth United on Saturday, January 25.

Emphasising the importance of the initiative, WFA secretary, Mervyn Leggett, said: "FA Community Clubs are the cornerstones of The FA National Game strategy.

"Achieving Community Club status isn't easy, but can be achieved by clubs who are committed to putting themselves at the heart of their local football communities, not only for existing participants but for future generations too.

"As an Evesham lad born and bred I am obviously extremely pleased that Evesham United have achieved this award and chairman Jim Cockerton and his team should be commended for their efforts "

The Community Club Award will provide clubs with a kitemark to promote their work in football development, enabling them to promote their provision of a safe and quality environment for all interested participants.

All new FA Community Clubs are required to meet FA criteria, ensuring they provide opportunities for players irrespective of age, gender, religion and ability. Clubs must also provide qualified coaches, first aiders and child protection officers.

As an example of their development, the club is looking to create a link with local special school - the Vale of Evesham.

All clubs that meet the criteria and achieve FA Community Club status will receive a host of benefits, including FA Community Club Kitbag that includes balls, bibs, cones as well as a FA Community Club plaque

Opportunities for tickets for England youth and women's internationals. McDonalds will also be donating an additional 1000 footballs to the first 100 clubs.

The 700 FA Charter Standard Clubs have in the last 12 months been able to also utilise the FA's new kitemark to their advantage in attracting grants and funding for development and facilities.

Andy Norman, added: "The FA Charter Standard Community Clubs provide an alternative pyramid for all clubs across the country.

"I would also like to pass on my congratulations to the board, but particularly Simon Parry, wife Sarah and other volunteers such as Louise Miles, who have been instrumental in the day to day running of a very impressive junior section."

The FA currently invests up to £30m into English grassroots football, £20m via The Football Foundation that has recently introduced a new fast-track scheme for grants of £10,000 or less.

More information on FA initiatives regarding club development can be obtained from the Worcestershire FA's Football Development Officer on 01905 827261 or send an e-mail to andy.norman@worcestershirefa.com.