JUNIOR football in Powys has been recognised for its excellence.

This season the Football Association of Wales (FAW) launched the new platinum award as its highest quality mark of junior club accreditation alongside gold, silver, bronze and standard.

Two Montgomeryshire clubs celebrated achieving platinum while the Mid and North Powys Junior Football League enjoyed its best overall allocation of awards.

Berriew and Llanidloes Town’s commitment to junior development earned both a platinum award.

Meanwhile Caersws and Welshpool Town were both recognised with silver while Dyffryn Banw and Forden United claimed bronze.

Bishops Castle, Knighton Town, Llanfair United, Llanfyllin Town, Newtown and Rhayader Town each achieved the standard award.

Paul Inns of Berriew Junior Football Club and secretary of the Mid and North Powys JFL praised the clubs.

“These are the best overall accreditation awards that the league has received and certainly highlight the commitment to junior football by local clubs,” said Inns.

“I am delighted that once again all clubs in the league have been accredited by the FAW.

“Special mention to Berriew and Llanidloes for achieving a platinum award, it’s a fantastic achievement considering only a handful of clubs in Wales have achieved that level.

“To have two clubs within our league at that level is a testament to their hard working coaches, committee members and other volunteers.”

Llanidloes Town Junior Football Club spokesman Matthew Savage hoped the fact the club was now one of just 11 throughout Wales to attain the top level of junior provision would lead to investment in facilities.

“Despite our achievements we are let down by facilities in the area and Llanidloes, as well as other towns and villages are crying out for investment to match the hard work of the junior football club.”

Savage praised roles of countless volunteers over the years.

“This award is an accumulation of hard work from many people over a 10 year journey creating opportunities for children aged between two and 18.

“As well as boasting over 200 girls and boys playing regularly, and more coaches reaching standards higher than ever, we are equally proud of our community work.

“The club has raised more than £15,000 over the last four years for Air Ambulance, First responders, Noah’s Arc Children’s Hospital, two community defibrillators as well as donations to our feeder schools.”