A Shipley teenager now has a prestigious FA award.

Lee Maran has won the FA Football Futures Awards in the running and developing football category.

The Leeds Metropolitan University student said: ”It was a surprise to get it, and it was a double celebration as I found out about it on my 19th birthday last month.”

Bradford & District FA’s Carol Dent said: “Lee was co-opted onto the Bradford & District FA earlier this year, along with Jas Powar.

“After hearing a presentation at the West Riding County FA by Laura Danskin about the FA Youth Council, I proposed that we co-opt some youth members to our association.

“I was aware of Lee as a referee and, after seeking advice from the county FA development team as to whether anyone was suitable, Lee was one of the two candidates suggested.”

He has been involved with West Riding County FA Football Futures for five years and has had the lead co-ordinator role for their Futsal Fives League.

Carol added: “Lee is also a member of the Craven Aire & Wharfe Junior League committee (his dad Martin is general secretary) and was welcomed unanimously to Bradford FA.

“He has already made an impact in extending the district’s use of the FA Full Time website.

“When an unexpected vacancy for a West Riding County FA representative occurred, Bradford FA decided to continue with our youth policy and nominate Lee, who has become the youngest council member of a County FA.”

Lee, who is a first-year sports and exercise science student, said: “I was a volunteer when I was 14, helping the county FA’s Jo du Tute and got involved in their administration when I was 16, running their Futsal leagues.

“I also help out the Bradford & District FA with their computer administration.

“Now I just want to keep on climbing and get involved with the FA nationally as a youth member.”

The award was presented to Lee at the FA’s new St George’s Park complex at Burton by the FA’s general secretary Alex Horne.

Lee was surprised that such a notable would find time to present such an award but Carol added: “Maybe that shows the FA’s commitment to involving and rewarding young people.”