GREAT Harwood Rovers JFC are celebrating after clinching the award of Community Club status from the Football Association.
Having already gained Development Club status five years ago, Rovers have now gone one better to receive the highest level attainable in the FA Charter Standards.
In order to achieve the status, clubs have to submit to intense FA scrutiny with all aspects of the management of the club put under the microscope.
Club secretary Andy Counsell said: "It's a tremendous accolade. A reward for hard work by all our dedicated members, helpful parents and really good kids."
The club was formed as the Great Harwood branch of the Blackburn Rovers Supporters Club in 1975, and now provides football for over 300 youngsters from the ages of five to 16, including a girls' team.
There are virtually two teams for every age group and the club has around 45 volunteers dealing with all aspects of the running of the club.
Andy added: "The club's aim is to get kids involved with football. Our philosophy is that we're there to provide a facility for all kids, no matter what their ability. Receiving the FA's Community Club award is a massive honour for us, a tribute to everyone involved with the club."
