Derbyshire grassroots heroes named in New Years Honours list

Jill Crossland, from Glossop, and Barry Newton, from Alfreton, who volunteer at Tintwistle Athletic FC and Sleetmoor United FC respectively, will both receive the British Empire Medal for making a “significant difference” to their communities.

The New Year’s Honours List recognises the outstanding achievements of people across the United Kingdom in a range of different areas.

Jill, often called “Mrs Tintwistle Athletic”, founded the club 13 years ago.

In his letter of recommendation, Tintwistle Athletic FC Robert Cousen described Jill as “an inspiration” and the “heartbeat” of Tintwistle.

He said: “Jill spends thousands of hours of her own time and money to make her community better, to give something to the people of Tintwistle and the wider area.

“She has taken children off the streets, provided them with a real focus and undoubtedly helped many who could have taken a different path.”

Barry was nominated for his ‘tireless’ service to grassroots football in the county.

Former Sleetmoor United chairman Matt Wheatcroft said: “Over the last 40 years he has tirelessly helped the club and God knows how many kids.

“He created a team out of kids that other teams and coaches didn’t want, and now they’re all flying.

Liam Rooney from Derbyshire FA added: “Jill and Barry are both wonderful people and we couldn’t have picked anyone better to receive these awards, they’re exactly the kind of people we want representing grassroots football in Derbyshire.”