A CARLISLE coach has won an award for his continued dedication to supporting a football team made up of men seeking refuge and asylum.

Carlisle Refugee Action Group's Chris Middleton and his side Hilltop United, who are part of around 200 people seeking asylum and refuge in and around the city, were recognised at the Cumberland FA Grassroots Football Awards 2024 at Brunton Park.

Chris was presented with the 'Keeping Football Positive' award after two years of coaching from the sidelines.

The award is for those who have used the power of football to improve others’ lives. 

The squad was previously credited with being the 'first' asylum seeker squad to be affiliated with the Football Association (FA). 

“The award is for keeping football in the limelight for people who may not have anything else in their lives and that’s exactly our lads," Chris said. 

Hilltop United FC squad picture before a match against NHS staff in August Hilltop United FC squad picture before a match against NHS staff in August (Image: Chris Middleton)

"The first thing the lads ask when they arrive is always: 'Is there any football?'

“It feels good to be part of something which is pretty amazing."

They will join the Cumberland FA Wellbeing League in December and will be one of eight teams in the league.

"Two years down the line we have a thriving football club, well supported by Nigel Davison EDI at Carlisle United and also the Cumberland FA who have supported us all down the line," said Chris.

CRAG's Chris Middleton and Jon Greenwood and Hilltop team players, Yousef, Evan, Zacharia and AidoCRAG's Chris Middleton and Jon Greenwood and Hilltop team players, Yousef, Evan, Zacharia and Aido (Image: Chris Middleton)

"We’ve been able to respond by joining their league and be part of something in the wider community.

“The lads will get to meet new people and exchange ideas and cultures."

Chris also gave special thanks to Helen Fisher at Botcherby Community Centre who has helped secure funding to buy the team new kits and boots. 

A closely contested match against NHS international team and Hilltop United FCA closely contested match against NHS international team and Hilltop United FC (Image: CRAG)

The team currently has 16 players made up of a mixture of nationalities, all of whom are now registered with the FA. 

One player in the squad is former professional Iranian footballer Yousef Yousefi. 

The lineup of Hilltop United has entirely evolved from its outset with significant changes coming after Christmas when hotels housing people seeking refuge and asylum were closed throughout Carlisle.