A YORK retailer has received an award from the Prime Minister in recognition of his work to strengthen the fortunes of one of the city's high streets.

Johnny Hayes, who chairs the Bishy Road Traders Association has been named a Point of Light by David Cameron.

The award recognises volunteers who make a change in their community and inspire others.

Mr Hayes, who runs Frankie and Johnny's cookware shop in Bishopthorpe Road, has led the traders association to national acclaim with the street recently named as one of the best shopping parades in Britain in a nationwide competition, the GB High Street Awards, organised by the Department for Communities and Local Government.

The association was formed four years ago by traders, and now boasts more than 70 businesses as members.

The Prime Minister said: "Johnny has transformed Bishy Road, creating a vibrant community at the heart of local events, community action and fundraising. I am delighted to make him a Point of Light."

After the closure of the local post office, and rise in the number of out of town supermarkets, Mr Hayes decided to do something to bring life back to Bishopthorpe Road.

He started by organising a summer street party and went on to create the ‘Jubolympics’ in 2012, annual winter light displays, ‘Bishy in Bloom’ and a campaign to get the local pub listed as a community asset.

After another huge street party for the Tour de France in Yorkshire last summer, Bishy Road was awarded the best dressed street by Le Tour organisers and the BBC based their breakfast coverage from there.

York City Council estimated that the event attracted more than 10,000 people to the street.

Mr Hayes said: "I was completely stunned and delighted to receive this "Points of Light Award" from the Prime Minister for my work on Bishy Road. I did not realise just how well known our lovely little shops and neighbourhood had become.

"I must say that I have really enjoyed my voluntary work on Bishy Road. This is an area I love, with a lovely community."

Mr Hayes was presented his award by Gary Verity, chief executive of Welcome to Yorkshire, as Bishy Road hosted the official launch for the countdown to the Tour de Yorkshire passing through in one month’s time.

Mr Verity said: "It's absolutely brilliant to see people taking such pride in their communities and celebrating the county they love.

"Johnny is a great example of someone who's doing just that and we hope this recognition will act as a catalyst for others to follow."