I was exceptionally pleased to hear that two local South Northants football clubs, Brackley Town FC and Charlton and District FC, have secured funding to improve their facilities. After a nail-biting World Cup earlier this year, it is great that our local teams are being supported and will continue to help new talent to develop their skills.

Following their amazing victory over Bromley to win the FA Trophy, Brackley Town has been awarded money from the Premier League funded Football Stadia Improvement Fund to enable the installation of a pitch irrigation system and new dugouts. The Fund awards grants for projects that improve the comfort and safety of supporters and players at lower league clubs, and also promotes supporter engagement.

Charlton & District FC has also been awarded a grant to fund the replacement of unsafe goalposts by the Premier League & FA Facilities Fund; this money is delivered by the Football Foundation on behalf of its core funders the Premier League, the FA and Sport England.

One of my key aims locally, and one that I am absolutely passionate about, is to support opportunities for young people to get more involved in sports and activities across South Northants. I am delighted that Brackley Town and Charlton and District FC are doing so well and continue to promote opportunities for young people.

If any other local clubs would like to apply for funding please contact: The Football Foundation, Whittington House, 19-30 Alfred Place, London WC12 7EA or enquiries@footballfoundation.org.uk.