Castle Combe Colts topped the table of Charter Standard clubs across the entire region by scooping a hugely prestigious Football Association awards double.
When Colts chairman David Lewis and secretary Trevor Newman accepted an invitation to annual Wiltshire FA Community Awards gala dinner, staged at Trowbridge’s Civil Hall on July 20, the height of their expectations was either an honourable mention or a repeat of the Highly Commended spot they earned at the same event in 2016.
Following immensely deserved gongs for grassroots heroes including referees, groundsmen, and volunteers, the awards for individual clubs were saved until last. Then, as Lewis and Newman listened in, a citation began which kept ringing with familiarity…
It included: "Formed in 1997, up to 300 players, 16 teams, highly successful Minikickers division, first club in Wiltshire to raise money specifically for and purchase a community defibrillator.
And ended with: "The award for Best Charter Standard Club in Wiltshire 2016/17 goes to CASTLE COMBE COLTS FC.”
But that piece of news was just the beginning, as the master of ceremonies continued ….
"The Colts were further entered into the South West Regional competition and emerged victorious in that as well. The judges recognised the club for an all-inclusive style, respectful club ethos and an attention to detail, meaning that all Colts emerge from the process better equipped for life than when they started there.”
After collecting the awards, a proud and delighted Newman said: “This is a truly amazing honour when you think of the numbers of clubs and all the fantastic volunteers driving those clubs forward.
“I have to say the level of support we are given by the Wiltshire FA – particularly the likes of Tim Hall, Kate Foote and Jodie Jordan – is outstanding. These people also repeatedly go 'above and beyond' the call of duty - we thank them so much.
“I say it often but never has it had a truer meaning - BE PROUD TO BE A COLT.”