Des Williams, who has devoted much of his life to schools’ football in Oxfordshire, was delighted to have his work recognised with a British Empire Medal (BEM) in the Queen’s New Year’s Honours list.

The 68-year-old retired King Alfred’s School, Wantage, maths teacher (pictured), who also lives in the town, was awarded the BEM for voluntary service to the community and youth sport in Oxfordshire.

He said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed the 45 years I have spent within youth football and got great pleasure in seeing lads enjoying themselves, and it is nice that my work has been recognised.

“But I certainly don’t do it for any awards and never have done.”

Williams founded the Vale of White Horse Schools’ FA in 1976, and has been secretary, treasurer and team manager during that time, with the highlight coming in 2012 when they won the English Schools’ FA Under 15 Inter-Association Trophy.

He has also been chairman of the Oxfordshire Schools’ FA for more than 20 years, and was joint manager when the county won the ESFA Under 16 Inter County Trophy, also in 2012.

Born in Coleshill, he founded Coleshill United FC in 1963 and is still the club’s president.

He has been secretary and treasurer at Letcombe FC for more than 30 years, and has also been involved with Buscot Park Cricket Club since 1960.