SALE Rotary Club’s new community service award has been presented to a man with an ‘infectious and inspiring’ commitment to Sale West.

The first of the annual awards was presented to 44-year-old FA coach Simon Youd from Thirsk Avenue whose community scheme is changing the face and the future of the Sale estate.

The Tom Morris Community Award - named after distinguished former Sale Rotarian the late Tom Morris – honoured the work of ‘Skillz FC’ which merges sport and life skills with a life-changing programme for all sections of Sale West, from primary school children to the over 50s and unemployed residents alike.

‘Skillz FC’, run by Simon and his daughter, with a handful of volunteers, is “all about the community – for the people, by the people,” said Sale Rotary Club president Gareth Trehearn.

“But it goes beyond sport into building self-esteem, motivation, confidence, outlook and positive attitudes that are making Sale West a very different place to live.”

Another key figure in sport for young people received a commendation for his work with Trafford MV Rugby Football and Cricket Club.

Chairman Greg Hawkins arrived at the club as a teenager, became club captain and later returned to form a junior section - the ‘MV Hawks’.

Now nearly 300 boys and girls, as young as three years old, turn out at MacPherson Park. Some have gone on to play 1st XV Senior Rugby at professional club, county and international level.

“Greg is another example of someone who has dedicated himself to community sport over the last 25 years and given outstanding local service,” says Gareth. “We are proud to recognise their work and commitment to Sale.”