Monday 13th August 2018

Royal Wootton Bassett Town's Free Saturday Skills Sessions have been awarded the Wiltshire FA's Community Project of the Year in the inaugural FA and McDonald's Grassroots Football Awards.

Introduced in September 2012 and overseen by Jeff and Helen Tidy, the sessions provide free skills coaching to four- to eleven-year-old boys and girls of all abilities during school term time.

On top of that, they have also served as an opportunity for young, aspiring coaches to gain experience under the tutelage of a UEFA B licensed coach.

In recognition of their achievements Jeff and Helen were invited, along with the other winners from around the country, to attend last Sunday's FA Community Shield contest between Manchester City and Chelsea at Wembley as guests of the FA.

It was a fitting, deserved achievement for the pair, who are stepping down after six years running the community football sessions.

Their contribution to the club during that time has been significant – something demonstrated by the number of players who have joined Bassett's youth section after attending the Saturday Skills Sessions.

And they have both left a legacy, which the club will seek to maintain.

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The FA and McDonald's Grassroots Football Awards recognise how grassroots leagues, clubs, volunteers and community projects play their part in making the nation's favourite game happen week in and week out up and down the country.

Both National and County FA awards winners were selected.

As an FA partner for 16 years and the longest standing supporter of grassroots football in the UK, McDonald's continues to champion those selfless volunteers who enable everyone to play and enjoy grassroots football in a safe, fun and inclusive environment regardless of age, gender or disability.

Upon announcing the awards, FA Chairman Greg Clarke said: "The FA and McDonald's Grassroots Football Awards are integral to recognising the thousands of exceptional grassroots volunteers all over the UK."

"By providing youngster with the opportunity to play the nation's favourite game in a fun and safe environment, these volunteers allow the next generation of footballing superstars to develop their skills."

"It's not an exaggeration to say that without their hard work and dedication, football in this country wouldn't be the same."

Last modified on Monday 13th August 2018 at 13:20.