“IT is more of a family than a club and there is even more to the club than rugby.”

They were the words of Thatto Heath Crusaders volunteers as they won an award recognising all they do in the community.

The unsung heroes are known throughout the community not just for their top rugby league teams but for their volunteer work, which often goes unrecognised.

That is one of the reasons they won the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, overcoming competition from groups across the UK, and people in St Helens voted for them to win the community hero title.

Dave Yates, vice-chairman of the club, said: “We have something like 500 people involved and it is run mostly by volunteers.

“I think it’s great that we have won this award as it’s something highlighting all the hard work we do in the community.

“We here today as representatives of all those involved in making it what it is.

“We are only as good as those who support us.

“I have been involved in rugby league for 50 years now, playing for 20 years and in administrative roles for 30 years, and I have never known a better chairman than Mike Denning.

“I would like to thank him for all he does and thank you everyone who voted for us.

“We are made up.”

Mike Woods, who coaches open age and under eights teams at Thatto Heath Crusaders, added: “I have been involved in the club for 25 years and everyone gets involved – nothing is too much for anyone.

“It’s a club I am proud to be part of.”

The club caters for under fours up to masters players.