A charity that has been helping the needy for more than 25 years has received a prestigious community award, as Stuart Robinson reports.
THICK fog may have stopped the Duke himself attending.
But it was still clear for all to see that a Leeds charity had been given its just reward for helping the city’s needy to make their house a home.
The Leeds and Moortown Furniture store, which helps recycle unwanted furniture donated by big-hearted residents in the city, has been celebrating after landing a prestigious regional community gong.
Proud bosses at the Seacroft-based organisation last week became the latest recipients of the Duke of York Community Initiative Award.
The Duke himself was unable to attend last week’s presentation event because of dense fog which had spread across parts of the country.
But the Lord Lieutenant of the East Riding of Yorkshire, the Hon Susan Cunliffe-Lister, stepped in to present the accolade at the last minute.
For more than 25 years the charity has been providing socially and economically disadvantaged people in Leeds with donated furniture to help them get the best out of their homes.
Leeds and Moortown Furniture Store chairman John Sherbourne said: “Being awarded the Duke of York Community Initiative is a fantastic achievement and a real honour.
“We are very proud of the work we do and this award is a marvellous seal of approval.”
His Royal Highness The Duke of York founded the awards initiative in 1998, in a bid to encourage the development of community spirit, individual leadership and boost initiatives based in Yorkshire and the Humber.
The initiative supports projects through a dedicated award scheme and recognition of excellence.
Community projects are only given awards once they have been through a rigorous assessment procedure to look at the merits of the work they have done for their local areas.
Simon Blagden, chair of trustees for The Duke of York’s Community Initiative Award scheme, said: “On behalf of myself and the assessment panel, I would like to offer our congratulations on what is a great achievement.”
The Lord Lieutenant read a personal message from The Duke of York at the presentation event.
The Leeds and Moortown Furniture Store is always keen to hear from people who have furniture they want to donate.
Anyone who thinks they may have suitable items can call the store in Seacroft on 0113 273 9727 or visit www.leedsandmoortown.org.uk to arrange a free collection.
For more details, visit: www.leedsandmoortown.org.uk
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