Barry Clark

A HATFIELD man has reached the finals of the largest youth volunteering awards in the country.

Barry Clark, 68, who has worked for Breaks Manor Youth Centre, in Link Drive, for 40 years, has been named as one of just three finalists in his category for the vInspired National Awards.

The annual awards celebrate the achievements and dedication of young volunteers and youth workers.

He was selected from hundreds of nominations to be named as one of just three national finalists in the ‘Outstanding Contribution by a Youth Worker’ category.

Mr Clark said he was “greatly honoured” to be nominated.

He added: “I have always tried to encourage young people to have positive attitudes and take every opportunity to broaden their experience and develop new skills and expertise.

“In enabling young people’s potential to be realised it should always be an enjoyable and rewarding experience.”

Welwyn Hatfield MP Grant Shapps paid his own tribute.

He said: “Barry Clark has had a big and very positive impact on our area for four entire decades.”

The overall winners will be announced at a ceremony in central London on March 22.