Mildenhall Town stalwart Lol Houghton receives FA 50-year Service Award ahead of Bury Town derby

Mildenhall Town stalwart Lol Houghton has received the FA 50-year Service Award, writes Nick Garnham.

The 89-year-old was presented with the award by Suffolk FA vice-chairman at The Hall’s Isthmian League North Division home match versus Suffolk rivals Bury Town on Boxing Day, which ended 0-0.

Houghton, who first started going to the club in 1969 with his young son Ian, is by far the longest-serving volunteer at the club.

He has raised well in excess of £150,000 for the club over the years with his raffles and draws.

Houghton, who recently announced his retirement after 54 years of loyal service, has been a great supporter and official at the club.

At one stage he was manager of one of the youth teams, but his main contribution has been helping out behind the scenes.

Suffolk FA chief executive Richard Neal said: “Every football club, every organisation, needs people like Lol involved.

“His appetite to raise significant funds over his 50-plus years of being involved with The Hall has enabled the club to continually improve the facilities at The Riverside Stadum to maintain their status as one of Suffolk’s premier football clubs.

“Together with undertaking other back-office, largely unseen but vital tasks, Lol is rightly revered at the club and it was our pleasure to present him with a 50-Year Service Award on behalf of The FA, Suffolk FA and Mildenhall Town FC.”

Mildenhall vice-chairman Ryan Townsin added: “Lol was really happy to receive the award.

“He loves the club and the way it is run and so loves spending time at the club.”