A FOOTBALL club has scored its seal of approval from the Football Association just over a year after it was formed.

Greater Leys Youth FC was the first football club to represent the area when it was set up by Nick Courtney-Cramp in September 2008, after he decided children needed more to do locally.

It has now been given a Charter Standard Club award by the Oxfordshire Football Association, which helps clubs improve coaching standards, administration and child protection.

To qualify for the status, the club needed to meet set criteria, including forming a constitution, code of conduct and a school-club link.

The club now runs five teams – it began with three – and has almost 100 members.

It is also considering launching a girls team.

Club chairman and under-13s coach Mr Courtney-Cramp, 41, of Columbine Gardens, said: “As time has gone on it’s attracted more local kids and brothers and sisters.

“There is a need for it, the estate is huge and it gives children a release from everyday life, whether it’s school, or if they are being bullied or if they need to get fit.

“It gives them that outlet where they can run around, get muddy and make friends, and do something good for themselves.

“We’ve done everything properly, which is why we have received the award.

“It’s a huge achievement – a lot of clubs that do things the right way eventually get there but we’ve done it in such a short space of time.

“It was a lot of hard work, going on training courses, and everyone associated with the club put in a big effort.

“Hopefully it shows everyone we are doing things the right way.”

The club has under-11, under-12 and under-16 teams which play in the Oxford Mail Boys League, and an under-sevens and under-eights team.

Ten voluntary coaches train children at Blackbird Leys Leisure Centre and in the nearby park in summer.

Under-12s coach Felix Simmons, of Acacia Avenue, Greater Leys, said: “It’s not just football, we are teaching the boys life skills – how to trust each other, work hard and give their best.

“The Charter Standard shows that we have a method in place to show we can provide these opportunities at the highest level.”

His son Jeshwa, 12, said: “The coaches are really good and the players are really nice and friendly. The best thing about the club is that we are all friends together.”

Owain Prosser, football development officer for Oxfordshire Football Association, said: “The FA Charter Standard award acknowledges the excellent support that Greater Leys Youth FC is providing within the local community and its efforts to provide opportunities for players to develop their skills and play football in a safe and positive environment.”

The club is always looking for sponsors and members. For details call Mr Courtney-Cramp on 01865 401625.