Royal approval for Men-Aces
THE inspirational Skem Men-Aces have been granted Royal approval.
The football team for adults with learning disabilities has won the prestigious Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, the highest accolade given to local volunteer groups in the United Kingdom.
Founder Carl Eaton, wife Miriam and daughter Samantha attended a Royal Garden Party at Buckingham Palace where they met Her Majesty The Queen.
They will receive the award from the Lord Lieutenant of Lancashire, Lord Shuttleworth, on July 4 at County Hall in Preston.
Carl, who was born with spina bifida and is a right leg amputee, was inspired to organise the football club in 2009 due to a lack of sports activities available for people with learning disabilities in his hometown of Skelmersdale.
The Men-Aces, who are now accredited to the Liverpool County Football Association, have more than 50 people attending each week and won a silver trophy at the Special Olympics in Bath in 2013.
Skem Men-Ace Matthew Coppell was also chosen to represent Mencap team GB for the European Championships in Geneva in June last year.
This year, Theo Duke and James Hughes also represented the Team GB squad and helped them to win the European Football Championship.
The Queen’s Award is officially classified as ‘The MBE for volunteer groups’ and was announced by Buckingham Palace this week.
Carl has worked tirelessly for the Men-Aces who also take an active role in supporting and giving back to their local community.
The football team has raised in excess of £50,000 for different charities.
Carl said: “This is one of the greatest things which has ever happened to us.
“We are honoured, delighted and grateful to receive this outstanding acknowledgment for our work in the community and beyond.
“This accolade clearly demonstrates that through hard work, dedication and the will to succeed, that dreams can come true.
“I would also like to thank the coaching staff of the Skem Men-Aces for their continued dedication and commitment.
“This decoration is not only for those involved with the Men-Aces but is also for the fabulous and amazing Skelmersdale community who through their continued support over the years we find ourselves where we are today.
“Finally, my heartfelt thanks to each and every player of this mighty club for bringing so much joy and happiness not just into my life but the lives of so many.
“Onwards and upwards for this unique and proud club.”