Derby County Community Trust were today recognised for their work across Derby and Derbyshire, as they received the Community Club of the Season for the Midlands accolade at the House of Commons.

The award, sponsored by Your Move as part of the overall EFL Awards which take place later this week, was presented to Community Trust members of staff and participants.

Judges commented on Derby’s ‘outstanding’ range of projects, with the three key initiatives presented by the Trust showcasing their cancer rehabilitation programme, work with pupils at risk of exclusion from mainstream education, and their Sensory Room at Pride Park Stadium, crowdfunded by Rams’ fans.

Simon Carnall, Head of Community, said: “It’s fantastic to be back at the Houses of Parliament to receive the regional Community Club accolade once again.

“The range of projects we were able to include in our application are a testament to our staff, who are dedicated to providing the best possible opportunities for all of our participants.

“It has been great to share today’s experience with one of those participants, Joel, who has been involved with our projects for 18 months now, and in that time has overcome significant barriers. He is now completing his education with us.

“Stories like Joel’s prove just how far reaching the power of a football club can go. It’s so important to us that we are able to put forward projects which span our entire communities, ensuring that Derby County has a place in all parts of our vibrant city and county.”

Derby County Community Trust have been recognised as the Midlands’ best community scheme six times since 2013, a significant achievement not bettered elsewhere in the English Football League. They have twice been named national champions, in 2015 and 2018 for their work within schools and Rams in Kenya project respectively.

This year, the five other regional finalists are Middlesbrough, MK Dons, Plymouth Argyle, AFC Wimbledon and Blackpool.

The Community Trust will learn if they have been named the national Community Club of the Season at the EFL Awards, which take place this Sunday, 24th April.