Jason Land Awarded British Empire Medal

A man in a black jacket talks to children wearing matching sports kits near a football pitch, with a stadium and stands visible in the background.

Everyone at Grimsby Town Football Club and Grimsby Town Foundation is delighted to congratulate Jason Land, Disability & Inclusion Lead at Grimsby Town Foundation, who has been recognised in the King’s Birthday Honours List 2026 and awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) for services to association football.

The honour follows a recommendation made to His Majesty The King by the Prime Minister, on the advice of the independent Main Honours Committee following an independent assessment process.

Jason has dedicated many years to ensuring football is accessible, welcoming and inclusive for people of all ages and abilities across North East Lincolnshire. Through his leadership and passion, Grimsby Town Foundation’s disability football programmes have continued to grow, providing life-changing opportunities for participants to develop their skills, build confidence and enjoy the game in a supportive environment.

His commitment to breaking down barriers to participation and creating opportunities through football has had a profound impact on countless individuals and families, helping to make the game truly accessible for everyone.

This recognition is a testament to Jason’s outstanding contribution to football and the wider community, and reflects the positive difference he has made through his tireless work with Grimsby Town Foundation.

British Empire Medal recipients will be presented with their medal by their local Lord-Lieutenant at a ceremony in their area and will also be invited to attend a Royal Garden Party.

Jason Land said: “I am incredibly honoured and humbled to receive this award. Football has the power to bring people together and change lives, and I have been fortunate to work with so many inspiring participants, families, colleagues and volunteers over the years. This recognition belongs to everyone who has supported our programmes and shared our vision of making football accessible to all.”

Polly Bancroft, Chief Executive Officer at Grimsby Town, said: “We are absolutely delighted to see Jason’s incredible contribution recognised with a British Empire Medal. His passion for inclusion, dedication to helping others and commitment to ensuring football is accessible to everyone has transformed the lives of so many people within our community. This honour is thoroughly deserved, and we are immensely proud of everything he has achieved.”

Everyone at Grimsby Town Football Club and Grimsby Town Foundation would like to offer their sincere congratulations to Jason on this richly deserved honour.

UTM