Malton and Norton Rugby Union Club have become one of the first in Yorkshire to be awarded the prestigious Rugby Football Union Seal of Approval and the Sport England Clubmark.

Work to achieve these milestones was started some two years ago under the watchful eye of chair of junior rugby, Russell Stead.

The prestigious awards were presented to the club by the chair of Community Rugby in Yorkshire, Steve Watson. He also made surprise presentations of volunteer certificates to two club stalwarts, Russell Stead and Bill Laidler, for their services to Rugby Football in England. Both are former captains of the club and still serve it.

Updated: 10:24 Wednesday, October 19, 2005