Aylsham Football Club is celebrating after being awarded a £3,000 Grow the Game grant, something that has attracted praise from England manager Gareth Southgate.

The grant, which will provide a boost to grassroots football in Aylsham, has paved the way for the club to enhance their girls' football set-up over the next three years, something that is top of the agenda at the club.

'I am so pleased that Aylsham FC has secured this Grow the Game grant. The club has worked very hard with Norfolk FA and the Football Foundation to get more local people playing football so that they can enjoy the many physical and mental benefits that come with playing regular sport,' said Southgate.

Gus Bates, Aylsham youth football chairman, added: 'I am extremely grateful to the FA for this grant. We strive to keep taking our club to the next level and this money will be used wisely to grow the girl's game in the town.'