East End MSP, John Mason, is encouraging people to nominate their local football hero for the Scottish FA Community Awards.

The Community Awards aim to recognise and reward those individuals across the country who make a difference to grassroots football in their local community, volunteering hours of their time to develop tomorrow’s young talent and spread best practice in clubs up and down the country.

There will be a local, regional and a national ceremony to celebrate each of the winners with categories for Best Volunteer in Youth Football; Best Volunteer in Schools; Best Volunteer in Adult Football; Best Volunteer in Disability and Best Volunteer in Women’s/Girls’ Football.

Commenting, Glasgow Shettleston MSP, John Mason – who is a Clyde FC season ticket holder, said:

“Grassroots football is the lifeblood of the game. Scottish football would be lost without those dedicated volunteers who give up so much for their free time to let children play the game they love.

“Across the East End we have a number of great youth teams and coaches who help train, organise and provide a safe environment for children to play.

“Nominations are open till May and can be submitted on the Scottish FA website.

“I hope people will put forward their East End football hero and help them get the recognition they deserve.”