Malton & Norton Rugby Union Football 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.

To obtain these awards the club had to show that all aspects of Mini and Junior Rugby within the club were administered and carried out to a very high standard.

Work to achieve these milestones was started some two years ago under the watchful eye of Chair of Junior Rugby, Russell Stead. A hard working and dedicated team of workers not only ensured that the administration was in ship shape order but also gained personal qualifications in coaching, first aid, child protection and many other aspects of making Malton & Norton Rugby Football Club a child friendly and safe environment.

At a ceremony at The Gannock Clubhouse the awards were presented to The Club by The Chair of Community Rugby in Yorkshire, Mr. Steve Watson. He complimented Malton & Norton R.U.F.C. on their achievement and praised the work which was being done to build upon an already impressive set up. The Certificates for both awards were received, on behalf of The Club, by Russell Stead.

In a surprise presentation, Mr. Watson also presented Rugby Football Union Value The Volunteer certificates to two Malton & Norton stalwarts, Russell Stead and Bill Laidler, for their services to Rugby Football in England. A member of The Club since his youth Mr. Stead has been a player, club captain, committee member and currently Chair of Junior Rugby during his lengthy spell. Current Club Secretary and Fixture Secretary, Mr. Laidler, is also a former player, captain, coach and long serving touch judge. Both men are still very actively involved in the running of The Club and the awards are an appreciation of the devotion of both to what is one of the most go-ahead clubs in the County.