A MOTHER and daughter from Llandrindod Wells have been recognised for their role in creating Powys’ largest girls football club.

Julie Christopher has been recognised as the Central Wales Football Association (CWFA) community coach of the year while daughter Kate is the 2017 volunteer of the year.

The two have played a key role in developing girls football provision at Llandrindod Wells Football Club since becoming involved in 2010.

“We had eight players when I became involved with the club,” said Christopher. “Now the club has the largest girls section in Central Wales with more than 65 players and several sides.

“I originally became involved through Kate who was a member of the section in 2010 and I wanted to ensure it continued to offer girls a pathway to the game.

“It’s great to receive the community coach award and I am so proud of Kate whose hours of commitment to the club has been recognised by the CWFA.”

Kate has continued to serve her hometown club and beloved Llandrindod Wells girls section despite her university commitments and switch to Welsh Women’s Premier League side Aberystwyth Town.

“Kate is studying physical education and coaching but despite her studies and commitment to Aberystwyth Town she remains very active with her hometown club,” said Julie.

Meanwhile Christopher will continue to develop girls football in Radnorshire.

“My next aim is to recruit three coaches to the existing set-up and ensure the club can continue to offer a pathway for girls into the game,” said Christopher.

“The women's game has suffered in Central Wales in recent years but signs are promising with growing girls sections at Llandrindod Wells and Berriew while Llanidloes Town are also back after several years in the wilderness.

“Hopefully this can lead to the establishment of a women’s league in Central Wales and more tournaments like the one held at Newtown last Sunday.”

Meanwhile Christopher added her voice to calls for improved facilities to be developed in Llandrindod Wells.

“Llandrindod Wells is a thriving football club but is being undermined by the lack of facilities,” said Christopher. “The girls currently have to train at Newtown, a 50 mile round trip, which is a long way to travel each week.”

“The town needs more pitches or a 3G pitch which would be a great asset to the club and community.”