OXFORD City secretary John Shepperd said he was humbled to receive recognition from the FA for his long service to the game.

Shepperd was presented with the FA’s Long Service to Football award ahead of City’s 2-2 draw at home to Concord Rangers in Vanarama National League South on Saturday and said it was a special moment.

“I was delighted with the award,” he said.

“I felt very moved to have been acknowledged for the time I’ve spent in the game and for everything I’ve been able to contribute during that time.

“That’s not the reason you do it, but it’s very nice to know that your efforts are appreciated.”

Shepperd, 81, started playing at the age of 15 for Oxford Boys, going on to feature for Oxford City Colts and RAOC, before a stint at Kidlington.

He went on to fulfil a number of roles at City, taking up the post of secretary in 1975 – a position he holds to this day.

Highlights have included trips to Italy alongside Bobby Moore and Harry Redknapp in the Anglo-Italian Cup, as well as City’s famous Wembley appearance in the final of the FA Vase in 1995.

Shepperd was quick to pay tribute to those he has worked with.

“It really has been a team effort,” he said.

“I’m lucky to have worked with a lot of really hardworking people here and we’ve all contributed.

“You do make a lot of friends doing this for all these years and that, I suppose, is the bonus of it.”