THE Cornwall FA have announced that Bude Town AFC’s first team as the winners of their 'Recognising Positive Behaviour' award for January 2025. This award celebrates clubs that demonstrate exceptional respect and positive conduct both on and off the pitch.

As part of the award, the Seasiders has received a bag of Nike training balls. Additionally, the Cornwall FA will cover the team's affiliation fees and public liability insurance for the upcoming season – a token of appreciation for the team's remarkable transformation.

The decision to recognise Bude was driven by a dramatic improvement in the team’s disciplinary record.

Claire Summers-Evans, Cornwall FA's Respect and Behaviour Lead, highlighted this significant change, saying: "Looking at the discipline data from this time last season, the difference is incredible. Bude's first team has only been issued with 12 penalty points so far this season, compared to over 100 points by this time last year.

“Behaviour ultimately stems from the managers and is then filtered down to the players, so the managers and players should be proud of themselves for showing such respect and sportsmanship. They deserve this recognition for the change of culture in this team."

The remarkable turnaround has been spearheaded by the team's new management duo, Steve Hackett and Liam Dart, who took charge at the start of the season.

Reflecting on the award, Steve said: "We are over the moon to receive this amazing recognition. When Liam and I stepped into management, we knew that wholesale changes were needed – whether in recruitment, improving the club's reputation, or raising standards for everyone involved: players, committee members, youth teams, sponsors, and spectators.

“For us, it’s about controlling the controllables and doing things the right way. We’ve worked hard to introduce an attitude of ‘doing things in the right way’ to enhance the culture at Broadclose Park. “We’re proud to be recognised for this hard work, and we’ll continue to build on this foundation in the years ahead. It’s been an incredible six months here at Bude Town AFC!”

A Cornwall FA spokesperson added: “The 'Recognising Positive Behaviour' campaign is part of Cornwall FA’s ongoing commitment to promoting a positive football environment across the county. By highlighting the efforts of clubs like Bude Town, we hope to inspire others to prioritise respect, integrity, and good conduct on and off the field.

“Congratulations once again to Bude Town for their well-deserved recognition!”

Bude were due to visit neighbours Holsworthy in South West Peninsula League Premier West on Saturday, but Hackett was quick to turn his attention to Saturday’s away trip to Penzance (3pm).

Speaking to the Post, he said: “We were gutted that yesterday was called off as we had a strong squad and the lads were looking forward to the test, but nobody can help the weather unfortunately.

“Looking ahead to Saturday we have a minibus booked and we know we’ll need to put in maximum effort if we want anything from the match.

“We played them away in the Cornwall Senior Cup earlier in the season and came away with a nice 1-0 victory after extra-time thanks to a goal from Harrison Swatton, so I’m sure they’ll be looking to get some revenge on us.

“It’s a great club with a lovely pitch and facilities, and although it’s a long way to go, it should be a great day out!”