Three Shotley peninsula football clubs have received a well deserved boost ahead of the new season.

Holbrook Hornets and Brantham Imps have been handed Respect Awards from the Suffolk Youth League, while Shotley Rangers have been re-affiliated into the Suffolk FA.

Hornets scooped first place in Suffolk Youth Football League Respect Marks Club Award, ahead of Martlesham and Benhall, which is decided on marks given to the club by the opposition.

Paul Moore, Hornets' chairman, said: "It's amazing to receive this award from the league, especially as the votes come from the all the other teams we play. 

Over the past few years, the club has gone from strength to strength and thanks go to all our volunteers for their hard work & dedication to achieve this award."

Hornets were also recognised for their sportsmanship in 2020 - full story here...

Respect - Brantham U13s (Picture credit: BAFC)

Brantham Imps Under 13s won their age group, again marked by opposing teams.

Darren Smith, Brantham Athletics' chef executive, said: "The club are delighted that our U13s Imps have been awarded the respect award by the league. 

"It is a testament to the management, parents and players that the game is played in the right way with due respect to officials and opposition. 

"In a world where it is easy to criticise and be criticised, it is very pleasing to see our youngsters leading by example. They are showing the club ethos of playing the game the right way.

"Respect is at the very bedrock of our club. We are very honoured and impressed by the whole team."

 Meanwhile, all the hard work and determination of the Shotley Rangers committee and volunteers has paid off after the Suffolk FA agreed to all the club be re-affiliated and the club was accepted back into the Suffolk Youth League, meaning all age groups can play in competitive cups and leagues.

Shotley Rangers chairman Dan Hart (Picture credit: Peninsula Nub News)

Dan Hart, Rangers' chairman, said: "This is a momentous day from Shotley Rangers, and the surrounding villages after a six year absence.

"The committee and all connected with the club are really excited and we look forward to a great season ahead and building on having more teams in the SYL the following season."

Revitalised Rangers return - full feature here...