CRAVEN Volunteer Centre said a sad farewell to one of its longest-serving trustees at its annual general meeting.

Gordon Jackson has been a management committee member since the centre became an independent charity in 2003 and he has been involved as a volunteer even longer.

Manager Dee Pollitt said: “Gordon was one of the volunteers on a scheme which offered gardening and DIY assistance to older and vulnerable people, which regrettably we had to close earlier this year. He has given many hours to helping people with all sorts of tasks and all to the highest standard.

"He has also been a great help to us as a management committee member in terms of advice and with practical assistance as well, so he will be greatly missed by all the staff and trustees.”

Gordon will now have time to pursue his other interests, which include conservation, wildlife, walking and outdoor sports.

Picture shows management committee members, from the left, back row: Jack Tarrant , from Ermysted’s Grammar School, Kevin Baldwin, Alex Dewar; front: Mags Allen, Gordon Jackson, Jerry Ford and Graham Yule.

Linda Yates, who was not present at the meeting, was also re-elected to the committee.