Purrington's Progress

A MEMORABLE season for young Pilgrim Ben Purrington has ended with a double celebration.

Ben, 17, who made his full Argyle debut on Boxing Day last year while still an apprentice, has been awarded the prestigious Richard Phillips Trophy for 2013-14.

This award and trophy is the gift of the family of Argyle supporter the late Richard Phillips and is awarded each year to the player aged under 19 at the beginning of the season whose ability, sportsmanship, work-rate, dedication and improvement are considered to be the best by the club’s youth management.

Academy Manager Kevin Hodges and Richard's daughter Bev recently met up with Ben, who made a total of 14 appearances in the season just gone to present him with the trophy.

At the same time, Kevin handed over to Ben a memento to mark his honour at being selected as one of 11 stand-out youngsters in the Football League following his debut.

He was named in a select side by League Football Education, recognising the football and academic progress of apprentices across the country, while also taking into account other factors, including involvement in charity or community based initiatives.

LFE chief executive Alan Sykes said: “This competition is directly associated with apprentice reviews that are conducted by our team of regional officers throughout the season.

"It is a great way to showcase the achievements and progress of talented young footballers on the apprenticeship programme.”