A woman who has dedicated more than a decade to transforming the lives of young amputee footballers through a programme at Reaseheath College in Nantwich has received a prestigious Pride of Britain Award.

Elaine Oakey, Head of Juniors at England Amputee Football Association (EAFA), was taken by surprise when presented with the “Inspiration Award” by comedian and TV presenter Jason Manford at a college training camp (pictured).

Elaine runs regular junior amputee football camps at Reaseheath College, the official home and main training venue for the England Amputee Football Association.

Her work has helped transform the lives of young amputees by giving them a chance to play football, develop skills, build confidence and friendships, and go on to represent England on the international stage.

Elaine’s journey began with her son Jamie, who was born missing his lower right leg and wanted to play the sport he loved.

When Jamie was five, he was told he could not play football matches because of his prosthetic leg.

But Elaine, originally from Blackpool, lobbied the England Amputee Football Association to establish a dedicated junior programme.

More than a decade later, she continues to coach, mentor and organise regular weekend camps for young amputees, helping children who may once have thought football was beyond their reach.

Jamie has since gone on to play for Everton and England.

Elaine’s commitment extends beyond the football pitch as she also cooks and delivers Sunday roasts to around 30 vulnerable local people every week.

The Pride of Britain Awards celebrated Elaine’s contribution with a heart-warming surprise from the young footballers she has supported forming part of the emotional presentation alongside Jason Manford.

Elaine, 53, said: “As a toddler, Jamie just wanted to kick a football about with one foot.

“When he was five, he was told he could come and train but he would never play in the matches.

“He was into football from a young age, he had a fire in his belly for the sport. When he wasn’t allowed to play my husband was furious.

“After that I found out about amputee football – I had no idea about it.

“The kids weren’t getting a chance because they were playing against adults so I decided to get a junior team together. Now we run eight camps a year.

“At first, for me to watch my son play with kids his age was amazing.

“Watching your child achieve something so great is incredible, and they are the best kids in the whole world.”

Jamie now plays amputee football for Everton and England, and is due to play in the Amputee World Cup in Mexico in November.

Elaine says: “Young people come to us at the toughest of times. They believe they’ll never play football again, and some get selected to the squad and even go on to represent England.

“It’s been an extremely long journey but I’m really proud of where we are today.

“It’s due to the community we’ve built and the hard work and dedication of so many incredible people.”

Watch the emotional Pride of Britain award to Elaine on ITV, below:

People can also support Elaine’s fundraising appeal at https://www.gofundme.com/f/pob-elaine