Mutford United FC, one of the oldest youth football clubs in the area, are celebrating after Suffolk FA have awarded them FA Charter Standard Club status for the second time.

Mutford United FC, one of the oldest youth football clubs in the area, are celebrating after Suffolk FA have awarded them FA Charter Standard Club status for the second time.

Founded in 1985, over the last year the club has gone from strength to strength culminating with the Charter Award in December.

Club secretary Gary Woollerton, who also coaches the U15 team said: 'With the advent of Charter Standard Youth Leagues over the next year it is important that Mutford United are able to continue to meet the high standards expected of Charter Standard clubs in providing football coaching, delivered by qualified coaches in a safe and friendly environment.

WThe whole club is proud of our achievements over the last year.'

An important factor in this success is the school/ club link with Dell Primary in Oulton Broad where most of the youngsters get their first chance to play football.

Beryl Hindes, headteacher at the school, said: 'We congratulate Mutford United on being awarded FA Charter Standard for the second time. We enjoy a very good relationship with Mutford, who have over the years often offered a regular after-school club at Dell that our pupils have attended.

'It is a fabulous local community club which strives to provide excellent opportunities for youngsters in the local area.

'As a school, keeping our pupils healthy and active is a high priority for us and we look forward to a continued partnership with Mutford FC.'

The club are also providing opportunities for players to be involved in refereeing and taking their first steps in coaching, with older boys (13-16) helping in the Summer Soccer School. Last summer having the benefit of coaching session with Jamie Godbold of Lowestoft who gave his support in re-launching the soccer school.

Club chairman, Paul Rose, himself a coach with U16 team said: 'The award could not come at a better time as we look forward to 2009.

'This promises to be the best year yet for the club.

'We will again run our successful Summer Soccer School for five to 10 year olds and are grateful for the continued support of Dell Primary for allowing us such a great environment.

'We will, in the near future unveil plans to support youth team players as they progress into adult football.

'There is also the exciting opportunity that has developed between Mutford Utd and Wrentham FC.

'We are looking to join together so as to offer Anglian Combination football to players from both clubs as well as the Notley's Lowestoft & District League.

'With teams from U8 to veterans it is a great time to be at Mutford United.'

Thanks from the club go to Suffolk FA and in particular Phil Woolnough, Mark Smith and Harrod UK and Kim from the Mutford Village Hall committee..

Anyone interested in joining or sponsoring can contact the club on 01502 500074 or visit the website at www.mutfordfc.talktalk.net