Nominations are being sought for two “prestigious honours” as Musselburgh Windsor Football Club celebrates 70 years of providing youth football this season.

In this special year, the John Murray Shield – an annual award considered the club’s highest accolade – will be presented and an honorary membership scheme introduced.

Club founder Joe Brown started the club – one of the oldest youth football clubs in Scotland – with a single team in June 1953, the month and year of Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation. However, it is believed that the club name was derived from the Windsor Park area of Musselburgh, where Mr Brown lived, adjacent to Pinkie Playing Fields.

Nominations are being invited for the John Murray Shield, which is named after John Murray, the club chairman throughout the 1990s and a founding member of the Scottish Youth Football Association, which governs all youth football for boys in the country. He was recognised for his work by becoming an honorary member of the Scottish FA.

The award is open to any person – player, committee member, coach, supporter, sponsor or parent – for special achievement. It is designed to recognise someone who has made a major contribution to the club.

There is a small panel of judges who will consider all candidates and select a winner.

All nominations can be submitted by email to scott robertson_mwfc@yahoo.co.uk

A name and any information about the nominee’s work for the club should be provided. It is hoped the club can present the award at the 70th jubilee dinner.

The club also wishes to pay tribute to former members who have “contributed significantly” to its success. An honorary membership scheme will recognise worthy individuals and ensure their “dedication and commitment” are not forgotten.

The club wishes to hear from anyone who meets the following criteria: a former club member who had achieved a minimum of 10 years of service (this does not have to be continuous); and who has served the club by holding a top-table or board position for a minimum of three years.

Alternatively, a former club member who had achieved a minimum of 10 years of service (this does not have to be continuous) and managed or delivered a service to the club for the benefit of all the club for a minimum of three years.

Any nominations for the honorary member award should be submitted to club.manager@mus selburghwindsorfc.co.uk

The closing date for all submissions is Sunday, March 3.