High Sheriff presents OASST with King's Award at Wham Stadium

The Official Accrington Stanley Supporters' Trust (OASST) received its King's Award from Helen Bingley, The High Sheriff of Lancashire (2024-25), in a special presentation on the pitch during Accrington Stanley's final game of the season against Tranmere Rovers at the Wham Stadium.

OASST chairman, Peter Leatham, and other board members from the Supporters' Trust gratefully received the honour at half-time in front of both home and away fans.

The award, which is the highest a local voluntary group can receive in the UK and is equivalent to an MBE, was presented to the OASST for providing and maintaining a positive relationship between the club and its supporters, whilst assisting the local community.

Attending in full High Sheriff dress uniform, The High Sheriff was accompanied by her grandson, Noah, who also won the ‘first goal wins’ competition.

Before the game, the OASST, The High Sheriff and her family, were special guests of Stanley chairman Andy Holt and managing director David Burgess in The Gallery Hospitality Suite, where they enjoyed lunch and half-time refreshments.

Helen Bingley, The High Sheriff of Lancashire, said: "It is fantastic to see a group of people who care so much about their local community and their local football club.

"It has been a great privilege to represent The Lord Lieutenant on behalf of King Charles by presenting this award to a wider group today.

"I have thoroughly enjoyed my visit and the wonderful hospitality here at the Wham Stadium."

Stanley chairman Andy Holt added: "As a club we are really pleased for the OASST and it really is a great honour for all the fantastic work they do here at Accrington Stanley."

OASST chairman Peter Leatham said: "It has been a really proud day for myself and the OASST.

"To have The High Sheriff of Lancashire here at the Wham Stadium to present our King's Award is a great memory for us all and we would like to thank everyone involved in making this happen."

The King's Award for Voluntary Service aims to recognise outstanding work by local volunteer groups to benefit their communities.

It was created in 2002 to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II's Golden Jubilee and, following his accession, His Majesty The King emphasised his desire to continue the Award and recipients are announced annually on 14th November, The King's Birthday.

You can see more about the OASST here: www.onstanleyon.com