FOOTBALL: England and Arsenal Ladies defender Casey Stoney met the next generation of football players on Saturday when she visited Petts Wood FC.

Stoney was visiting the club as part of the drive for nominations for the McDonald’s football mum of the year award, which recognises mums who put in countless unpaid hours of hard work to ensure their children can enjoy playing the game.

The captain of Team GB at the London 2012 Games was greeted by around 100 young footballers, a mix of boys and girls aged from three to 15 before meeting the inspirational volunteers behind the club’s success.

Stoney also ran a special training session for a group of Kent ‘mummy bloggers’ and their children, teaching them some basic training drills that could be done at home with their kids, helping to improve their skills and providing an opportunity to bond.

The mum-of-twins said: “I started my career at the grassroots of football and as a new mum I can already see how important this award is from both sides of the fence.

“There are so many mums who help to run their child’s club or volunteer at the clubhouse to help raise funds so the kids can play.

“It’s so important to recognise them when you consider that they’re also often juggling childcare and work on top.

“I cannot wait to have a kick about with the twins in a few years.”

Nominations for the McDonald’s football mum of the year award are now open and will close on June 19.

To nominate a mum you know, visit mcdonalds.co.uk/mumoftheyear

FOOTGOLF: Karl May triumphed over number one seed Clinton Moore by making it two competitive victories in a row with a stunning 54 (eight under par) success at Orpington Footgolf on Saturday.

FOOTBALL: There were just two games for sides from Gravesham Girls & Ladies FC last Sunday and both ended in defeat.

The U12s went down 2-0 at Herne Bay Girls, while the U16s were well beaten 5-0 by Foots Cray.