AN MP was on hand to dish out end of season awards to young players at Rayleigh FC.

Rayleigh and Wickford MP Mark Francois has had a long association with the club, and annually attends to present some of the awards.

The club are one of the largest youth football clubs in the country, with over 60 teams, including a number of girl’s sides and veterans as well.

This year, Mark helped hand out awards to both the U12 and U13 sides and was there when the managers from both sides spoke to both parents and grandparents about their team’s achievements over the past year.

Mr Francois said: "I can remember playing youth football when I was growing up in Basildon many years ago.

"I still have some of my end of season medals in my display cabinet at home, which bring back many happy memories.

"I am a firm believer in the value of youth sport, not least in teaching young people the importance of team work and discipline and I am very proud to have a club as successful as Rayleigh FC in my constituency.”