Wardle FC chairman presented with FA award for over 30 years of service

Photo: Lancashire FA

Rik Fielding with his award

Rik Fielding has received an FA award for his longstanding contribution to grassroots football in Lancashire.

The long service awards are set up by the FA to honour and thank those who have given up their time over the past 30 and 50 years to ensure that grassroots football across Lancashire is as great as it is.

Volunteers came from across the country to be recognised for their dedication and to be presented with their awards.

Attendees also got a chance to listen to a Q&A with former Blackpool, Bury and Preston North End player and current coach education manager at the Lancashire FA, Colin Greenall; former goalkeeper for the likes of Bolton, Bury and Wigan turned physio, Simon Farnworth; and the former mainstay in the national partially sighted futsal team and most capped England male player, Steve Daley MBE.

Rik Fielding, chairman of Wardle FC, said: “I’ve done 35 years and I was recommended for the award to the FA by the club secretary.

“We wouldn’t be able to do it without volunteers. People forget that we do it for free and sometimes people need to thank us for that.”

Daley spoke about the importance of celebrating the remarkable efforts of grassroots volunteers: “I think it’s probably long overdue, I think recognising the people in the room today that have got 30 and 50 years service to grassroots football is phenomenal.

“Not only the money they save the game, but just the dedication in all weathers for them to be out there is just fantastic.

“Without people like this, football just wouldn’t happen, so I think it’s important that the Lancashire FA recognise it but also they share it with each other and recognise what they do right across the county.”

Rik currently coaches the U16s and is responsible for setting up all of the club events.

He added: “If people want to get involved, just ask. If you’re young, speak to your local club about it. It can be only an hour a week and its open to anybody.”

Wardle FC now has over 170 players and Rik is asking that if anyone wants to contribute on the weekends and help with the pitches or the club then contact him on: 07759127135 or reach out to their Facebook page.