As the club is run by volunteers I thought that it was worth highlighting the value that grass roots football contributes not only to the players personally but the overall economy. The attached study from the FA highlights the direct financial contribution and also the more general benefits to the local community.

The report shows that by children playing grassroots football depression and anxiety has been reduced by 66,500 cases a year and childhood obesity by 213,500 cases a year. The report states that 'children who play football are more confident and resilient than those who do not play any sport'.

I think all the coaches and volunteers deserve support and respect for all the hard work they put into making football an enjoyable and rewarding experience for the children in their care.

A kind word or gesture never goes amiss.

Mark