Aylsham FC is celebrating after being awarded a £3,000 Grow the Game grant, something that has attracted praise from England manager Gareth Southgate.

The grant, which will provide a boost to grassroots football in Aylsham, has paved the way for the club to enhance the girls’ football offering over the next three years, something that is top of the agenda at the club.

England Men’s Senior Manager and Football Foundation Ambassador Gareth said: “I am so pleased that Aylsham FC has secured this Grow the Game grant. The club has worked very hard with Norfolk FA and the Football Foundation to get more local people playing football so that they can enjoy the many physical and mental benefits that come with playing regular sport.

“Grow the Game is mainly funded by the FA and delivered by the Football Foundation. This is money that is flowing from the very top of the game down to the lowest levels, to help clubs at the grassroots to bear the cost of starting up a new team, whether it be for a new kit, pitch hire or sending volunteers on FA accredited coaching courses.”

Grow the Game is a £2.5m programme which awards grants to grassroots football clubs that wish to create new teams, especially among under-represented groups.

There is £1,500 available to help FA-affiliated clubs with the cost of creating a new team, which might include the cost FA coaching courses; FA league affiliation costs; referees’ fees; first aid kits; and even football kit and equipment.

Gus Bates, Aylsham FC youth football chairman, said: “I am extremely grateful to the Football Foundation for this grant. We strive to keep taking our club to the next level and this money will be used wisely to grow the girl’s game in the town and keep Aylsham FC at the forefront of sport in the area.

PICTURE BY VAUGHN RIDLEY/SWPIX.COM…