A GROUNDBREAKING organisation which helps ex-offenders through football has been honoured for its work.

The Street Soccer Academy, based in Boundary Industrial Estate, Breightmet, has been hailed by the Lloyds Bank Foundation Charity Achievement Awards.

It was recognised in the 'outstanding impact' category, for its work reintegrating ex-offenders back into society, through its custody to community initiative.

The academy, which was founded by qualified coach Andrew Thorp, from Tonge Fold, has been working in partnership with Forest Bank Prison since 2011.

Offenders reaching the end of their sentences take part in a 10-week programme, designed give them the skills to reintegrate into the community when they are released from prison.

The scheme delivers a football based skills programme, supporting development through goal setting and making plans to achieve this without reoffending.

Since the programme started, less than 10 per cent of those taking part have gone on to re-offend.

The academy also helps people suffering with drug and alcohol problems, homelessness and physical and mental wellbeing.

Simon Murphy, the academy's technical director, said: "We help people with a whole range of issues but we are delighted to have been recognised with this award.

"We have found the programme to be extremely successful, and have re-integrated ex-offenders back into the local community."

The academy will receive £1,000 for winning the award, and will now go on to compete against charities across the UK at the finals of the awards in London on October 8.

Paul Streets, chief executive of the Lloyds Bank Foundation, said: "We are delighted to celebrate the winners of our Charity Achievement Awards.

"They have demonstrated excellent and inspiring practice, and have set the standard high, not just surviving in these tough times, but thriving, delivering vital services and literally transforming lives."