An exciting new chapter, this is fitting recognition of the charitable nature of the work that the football club does to support its local communities. Charitable status will give Boston United Community Foundation increased opportunity to apply for grants and funding to support these communities even further and it means the club can accept donations while giving individuals and businesses the ability to claim gift aid.

It will also give us access to the Premier League Primary Stars programme — a nationwide project to inspire children using the appeal of professional football clubs.

The funding provided by the Premier League via the National League Trust will give Boston United Community Foundation access to funding which will enable us to work in a variety of ways with local schools to inspire children to learn, be active and develop important life skills both in the classroom and on the sports field. It will also allow us to work with teachers to deliver fun, educational sessions in a range of subjects.

United chief executive Mike Hardy said: "We are pleased to have been awarded charitable status, as it recognises the great work that we do within our local communities which is accessible to all.

"We are already established as a leading provider of sports coaching in Lincolnshire. However, as an innovative company constantly looking to grow and meet the needs of our communities, it was the right time to be recognised as a charity.

"Applying for grants and funding is becoming an increasingly competitive arena, so as a charity it will enable us to remain at the forefront of the community sports sector and provide great coaching, resources and more opportunities for our communities in Lincolnshire."