A former fundraiser and chief officer of Skipton YMCA has been awarded an MBE for his services to young people.

Ken Allinson, now chief executive of Richmond YMCA, was instrumental in setting up Skipton’s Pinder House, which was officially opened in 1995 by the then MP David Curry.

“From 1994, Richmond YMCA was the accountable body of a Round 1 Single Regeneration Budget programme – a five-year project to develop YMCA projects,” said Mr Allinson.

“Eventually, in 1995, with a great deal of help and support from Craven District Council and YMCA England, we opened Pinder House in Skipton. The ceremony was conducted by David Curry MP, then MP for Ripon and Skipton and the housing minister.”

Pinder House still comes under the overall management of Richmond YMCA.

Julie Botham, manager of Skipton Pinder House, said: “At the YMCA in Skipton we are really proud of Ken and aware that due to his efforts and dedication the YMCA in Skipton would not have been here since 1995.”

Mr Allinson’s trip to Buckingham Palace to receive his award from The Queen was made more memorable by him bumping into a former resident of Richmond YMCA who is now a member of the Household Cavalry.