DERRY Hill FC youth coach and founder member Alan Crocker had the day of a lifetime after being given a top coaching award during England's win over Wales at Old Trafford on Saturday.

Crocker, 41, was handed the FA's Charter Standards coach of the year award at half-time in the World Cup qualifier.

Crocker, of Red Hill Close, Derry Hill, attended the match with his wife Wendy, who is the club secretary, and son Sam, 11. Sam was asked to carry the FIFA fair play flag on to the field while the national anthems were being played.

He said: "Sam was stood in the centre circle while the anthems were being played. It was amazing.''

Before the match Crocker and his wife were invited to a meal with the FA, while Sam was at the ground preparing for his role and keeping an eye out for the England players.

Crocker said: "It is fantastic to be recognised, also this is great for the club. We have come long way since I started the club three years ago. The club had 16 members back then, we have over 120 kids playing at different age groups, this season we even started a girls side."

Crocker was nominated for the award by the Wiltshire FA. He was recognised not only for his achievements in youth football but also for the coaching programme he has set up at the club.

He said: "I now have 12 coaches at the club and I sort out all their training. I train them up and put them through their NVQ FA coaching badges.

"Saturday was amazing for my whole family. I have been to Old Trafford before but always sat in the high tiers. This time we were three rows behind the dugout. Sam is a Manchester United fan so he really enjoyed going there and sitting so close to the pitch."

Crocker presented with the award by West Ham and England football legends Sir Geoff Hurst and Trevor Brooking

"I think my highlight was being given the award by Geoff Hurst and Trevor Brooking. Trevor is probably my greatest football hero and it was superb to shake his hand."

Crocker admires Brooking because of his involvement in coaching. He said: "Trevor gave up the opportunity to go into management to take up a role as football development officer. He shares my passion of developing youngsters."