A STALWART of the Ringwood & Fordingbridge Lions Club has received a special award for his efforts to help young people.

Yorky Tuke is among the longest serving district officers for youth in the region.

And in recognition of his work, he was recently presented with the Bert Mason Memorial Trophy.

It was presented by Immediate Past District Governor, David Ebsworth, at a club meeting held at The Trinity Church in Ringwood.

Yorky was nominated for the award by his peers, who highlighted his ‘continued outstanding contribution to his club’s and district’s contribution to working with our youth’.

Mr Ebsworth said: “Over the years, I have got to know Yorky personally and he is a kind generous man. Nothing is too much trouble.

“And he has been the driving force behind the Young Ambassador program in our district.”

He also received a certificate of appreciation from Lions Club president, Phil Gregory.

The Bert Mason Memorial Trophy is named in honour of the former president, the only UK Lion to have held the position of International President.

The trophy is presented each year to a Lion for work with young people.

Each year, the Ringwood & Fordingbridge club runs a number of youth projects, including The Lions Youth Camp & Exchange Program, The Lions International Peace Poster Competition, The Lions national ROAR Competition and the Lions Young Ambassador Program.

The club meets on the second Thursday of each month at The Trinity Centre in Ringwood. For more details, log on to www.randflions.org.uk.