WORDSLEY Wasps Football Club stalwart David Vickery is due to be recognised with a prestigious British Citizen Award for his services to the club and community.

David, from Stourbridge, is one of 28 community champions set to be recognised at the Palace of Westminster in an awards programme that has become known as The People’s Honours in recognition of their extraordinary endeavours.

The British Citizen Award, now in its 10th year, recognises exceptional people who positively impact their communities.

David is set to receive the coveted BCA Medal of Honour for Services to Community at a ceremony today (Thursday January 18) hosted by TV presenter Matt Allwright.

The accolade has been awarded in recognition of David’s dedication to Wordsley Wasps FC over the last 25 years.

While working full time, he has been committed to giving up Tuesday and Thursday evenings and Saturday and Sunday match days.

He has been chairman of the club for the last five years and he oversees 24 teams, ensuring managers adhere to the FA Charter and follow safeguarding procedures.

Keen to make football accessible and inclusive to all, he recently raised more than £3,500 for the club and is currently negotiating with the council to provide a home football ground, while lobbying parents to donate their skills to provide the renovations for free.

In 2007, after coaching a boys’ team for nine years, he became aware of a lack of opportunity for girls, and so he formed the first ever WW girls’ squad.

In 2014 he started a new under seven’s girls’ team that he still manages today.

In 2022 he spearheaded a collaboration between Wordsley, Lye Town Ladies and West Bromwich Albion FC, creating a supportive pathway for girls into women’s football.

Stephanie Wood, from BCA partner One Stop, said: “This year’s medallists have reminded us of how many amazing people are supporting our communities, especially during such a challenging time.

“We're proud to be partnering with the BCA again and to play a small part in helping each medallist to be recognised. Our congratulations go to all honourees.”

The British Citizen Award was established in 2015 to recognise exceptional individuals who work tirelessly and selflessly to make a positive impact on their communities and society.

To nominate an outstanding individual to be considered for The People’s Honours visit www.britishcitizenawards.co.uk.