RHYL Football Club’s contribution to the community has been acknowledged with a national award.

The Lilywhites took home the Community Project category at the Inspire! 2018 Awards held in Cardiff this week, with chairman Paul Higginson and director of sport and education David Norman on hand to collect the accolade.

The work done by course tutor Ashley Jones in delivering a community project which reaches out to learners who require that second chance to progress has been a significant benefit to the town and has been recognised for the first time nationally.

A spokesman for Adult Learning Wales, said: “The venue (Rhyl FC) has been a key factor in the success of the project with its community spirit, excellent facilities and access to ICT equipment.

“The tutor (Jones) has also been key in encouraging learners to attend through his enthusiasm and ability to put the learners at ease.

“Feedback from learners has been that although initially sceptical about attending a course, they have thoroughly enjoyed the experience and feel they have gained skills which are worthwhile and will help them to move forward in life and work.”

Rhyl’s Football in the Community scheme aides those that have been out of work for a considerable time, offering courses to improve job search skills, CV writing and interview techniques.

Norman, added: “Ashley Jones has done a remarkable job with the engagement of the adult learners and with limited resources. This award is a recognition of the excellent work he has done as the heartbeat of the adult learning initiative at the Club.”

The Lilies will be developing its Football in the Community work in partnership with Educate Resourcing in the coming months to enhance the programme further.