A TEENAGE volunteer coach who touched the sporting world in an iconic photograph has been honoured for his dedication to disability football.

Joe Skinner, 17, who was 13 at the time former Clarets striker Danny Ings gave him his boots at the end of the final game of the 2012/13 season, has continued his involvement with Burnley FC in the Community.

Staff from the charity accompanied Joe to the British Olympic Association in London to celebrate the Torch Trophy Trust 54th annual awards.

The event was attended by Torch Trophy president Sir Bobby Charlton CBE and trustee Sir Trevor Brooking CBE.

Also joining proceedings was guest of honour the Earl of Wessex, Prince Edward, who presented the awards on the evening to recognise the outstanding achievements of the unsung heroes of sport, volunteers.

The Torch Trophy Trust was established in 1962 and ever since the trust charity has provided vital financial support and recognition to volunteers across the sport and recreation sector.

Avid Burnley FC fan Joe was nominated for the award by Burnley FC in the Community and the Premier League for his contribution to the Danny Ings Disability Sport Project.

Joe has supported the programme which helped to develop Burnley’s disability provision.

He has been at the forefront of the programme since its inception helping to lead and mentor younger less confident participants.

Joe said: “Attending the Trophy Trust Awards was a great experience for me, it was overwhelming to be in the same room as Sir Bobby and Sir Trevor and to share in conversations with them and Prince Edward.

"Overall it was truly humbling and I’m honoured to receive the award.

"It was a great day."

Joes nomination read: "Joe is selfless and kind nature, as an advocate for Burnley FC in the Community’s disability projects he regularly delivers disability awareness presentations and inspires those with a disability to get involved in sport.

"He is also a member of the Burnley FC disabled supporters group and spearheads a campaign to review stadium access to ensure that all disabled supporters have a positive experience when attending matches at Turf Moor."

Joe attended the awards ceremony with mum Bernadette Skinner and Burnley FC in the community disability development officer Lewis Rimmer.

Lewis said: “It was such an honour to accompany Joe and Bernadette to London for the awards ceremony.

"Joe is so deserving of his award, the passion and commitment he has for the Danny Ings Disability Project is fantastic to see.

"Myself, the whole team at Burnley FC in the Community and Danny himself are all incredibly proud of him."