DEDICATED grassroots volunteer George Silverman is in the running to win the FA and McDonald’s 2017 People’s Award.

Malvern-based Silverman has been involved in football all his life as a player, referee and for more than 30 years as chairman and secretary of the Mercian Junior Football League.

Under Silverman’s stewardship the league has become the largest in the county and the first to achieve Charter Status.

He has already been recognised at a regional level, winning the FA and McDonald’s Community Award Outstanding Contribution to Community Football category.

He is now among six nominees to be shortlisted for the prestigious prize, which gives the public a chance to show their appreciation for a local hero by crowning them national champion.

The winner will be announced at the 2017 Community Awards ceremony at Wembley Stadium on Sunday, August 6.

Sir Geoff Hurst, director of football at McDonald’s, said: “Volunteers are the backbone of the game. Everyone in Worcestershire should want to recognise the incredible work that George does for the local community by taking just a few minutes to cast a vote.”

Voting closes on July 30.

To vote, visit bit.ly/2vfB2Rq