Kent MP Recognised As First Grassroots Football Champion

Helen Grant, MP for Maidstone and the Weald and the former Government Sports Minister met with the Kent FA today, visiting the Stones’ Gallagher Stadium to watch their FA Cup First Round match against Macclesfield Town.

Helen met with Philip Smith, Chairman of the Kent FA to learn more about how FA and Kent FA investments are widening grassroots participation, improving facilities and supporting player development in her constituency.

National League side Maidstone United played Macclesfield Town who are currently propping up League Two in the First Round of the FA Cup, the oldest cup competition in the world. At half time Philip presented her with a Grassroots Champion award to recognise her support for the game in her local community, becoming the first MP to receive the honour.

Helen Grant MP said “Grassroots sport is so important to local communities and that is why I was delighted to support my local club Maidstone United today in their FA Cup First Round match. It was great to meet some of the staff and volunteers at the club and the Kent FA who make grassroots football possible in my constituency.”

Philip Smith, Chairman of Kent FA said “Our congratulations to Helen. It is really important that football has MPs standing up for the grassroots game in Parliament and I am proud we have one here in Maidstone in Helen Grant. We are working hard to cater for over 62,500 players of all ages and 15,000 volunteers across Kent and we need as much support as possible to continue growing the game for the benefit of all.”