BBC Radio York editor Barrie Stephenson has revealed there were three reasons why Malton and Norton Rugby Club were voted as the Amateur Sports Club of the Year, as chosen by the station.

He said: "Firstly, Malton won the Tetley Bitter Vase, which was a great achievement, which gave the community a morale boost after it had suffered from the effects of the floods.

"Secondly, we were particularly impressed with the youth team set up there. And thirdly, the club has produced an England international - James Peckitt having made the under-19 side." The club were honoured at an awards ceremony a week last Sunday.

Updated: 12:53 Thursday, December 06, 2001