The Evo-Stik League Northern Premier

Halesowen Town FC are celebrating before the new Evo-Stik NPL First Division North campaign has even kicked off after winning the Football Association's Charter Standard Development Club of the Year Award.

The Yeltz picked up the honour in midweek at the Birmingham County Community Awards. Guests heard the FA praise the club's fans and officials for how far they had come in just 12 months since financial problems brought the club, formed in 1873, almost to it's knees.

Proud Yeltz officials say the FA's award will be on display in the Yeltz club shop over the coming season at The Grove.

Halesowen, who kick off their preseason campaign against Redditch United on Saturday 14 July, brought midfielder Ben Steane back to the club on Thursday from Rugby Town.

Manager Shaun Cunnington confirmed that 30-year-old Steane, who made 48 starts previously for the Yeltz and was also part of Chasetown's successful FA Cup run side, will be lining up alongside Neil Barnfield who is also back at the club in midfield.