Aldershot Town gets a gold award for trail-blazing work supporting the Armed Forces

Aldershot Town Football Club have been awarded gold status by the Armed Forces Covenant's Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS).

The Aldershot-based club, which plays in the National League, holds historical links to the Armed Forces through the town's well-known status as the home of the British Army.

They have been recognised for their work in the Armed Forces community through their charity, The Shots Foundation, which spearheads the Veterans Hub initiative, support for military events and schools, and their work with the Royal British Legion.

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The club's annual Remembrance Day game and service of remembrance is now one of the most important dates on the club's calendar and it also offers military personnel a discount to attend Aldershot Town home games.

The EBB Stadium, home of Aldershot Town, has played host to several Inter Services games as well as the most recent fixtures involving the British Army and the Nepal National Team. 

Aldershot chairman Shahid Azeem said: "Aldershot is the home of the British Army and, as the town's football club, it's our honour and duty to support the Armed Forces and all those who have sacrificed and risk their lives for ours."

Veterans Minister Al Carns added: "I am delighted Aldershot Town FC have been recognised for their exceptional efforts and congratulate them on their trail-blazing work.”

The ERS aims to encourage employers to support defence and inspire others to do the same, giving bronze, silver and gold awards for employers who align their values with the Armed Forces Covenant.