FA Order of Merit 2024
FA ORDER OF MERIT PRESENTED AT EAST RIDING FA GRASSROOTS FOOTBALL AWARDS
The FA Order of Merit is presented to people for their long service to grassroots football in England.
This year we are delighted to be able to present the award to three people from our county who have served football for 50 years or more.
East Riding FA CEO Adam Lowthorpe said; "We are are delighted that we can recognise so many people for their long service to grassroots football. Through their time and dedication the lives of so many people will have been affected positively with so many memories made along the way. On behalf of the East Riding FA I would like to thank all of this years recipients for their contribution to grassroots football."
Colin Smith
Hull City Supporters AFC are celebrating their 50th anniversary this year and Colin has been there since day one.
Taking on roles such as Player, Secretary, Manager and First Aider.
Colin's commitment to local football has been immense with him giving over a 1000 people the opportunity to play grassroots football.
Gary Edwards
Gary first started playing back in 1972 when he turned out for Grassby's FC in the Humber League. Since then, he has played for a number of teams in the area whilst also serving the county as a referee.
He has also served as a committee member on the East Riding Amateur League and is still volunteering as a member of the Right Car East Riding County League.
Mick Bickerstaffe
After starting to play in the late 1950’s Mike has played for a number of the regions sides including Needlers, Jesmond and East Park Amateurs.
He has also served the county as a match official and is still taking to the field to take control of games at the age of 82.