Two Royal Yachting Association Awards have been presented in the district for opening up the world of sailing to more young people.

Andrew Goldsborough, who works at Bradford Council-run Doe Park Activity Centre in Denholme, has been named volunteer of the year by the association’s Yorkshire branch, while Otley Sailing Club has been named club of the year.

The awards are in recognition of work towards the OnBoard programme – intended to give youngsters aged eight to 18 the chance to experience sailing, a sport often seen as elitist. The programme relies on organisations like sailing clubs and water sports centres to reach out to young people.

Mr Goldsborough’s award comes after praise from the centre’s users.

And Otley Sailing Club got the recognition after 130 young people used its centre in 2012.

Liz Wrigglesworth, OnBoard development officer for the RYA, visited the activity centre and sailing club to drop off their awards. Louise Clarke, manager of Doe Park, nominated Mr Goldsborough, of Haworth, for the award, and said: “Andrew has a constant smile on his face, no matter what the weather is like. This year alone I have been asked by more than one of our customers to thank Andrew for helping them improve their sailing, or even just giving them the confidence to give it go.

“Andrew is also a regular volunteer at the Sailing Club’s Sunday morning sessions and I think that the popularity of these is down to Andrew and his friendly and welcoming attitude.”

After receiving the award he said: “I am thrilled. Sailing is something I enjoy doing and hopefully this award will raise awareness of the excellent facilities on offer at Doe Park.

“The centre has also received funding to improve our facilities and equipment for people with disabilities, and we will be applying for RYA Sailablility status in the very near future.”

Mrs Wrigglesworth said: “Some 130 youngsters have taken part in OnBoard sailing activities there this year, with the club regularly attracting around 35 participants at their weekly youth club.

“With so many youngsters taking part it can often be exhausting for the club instructors and volunteers, but their sheer enthusiasm and determination has ensured the club’s success.”

Senior instructor Anthony Cam said: “The receipt of the award is wonderful recognition for all our volunteers. We have a very special team who have grafted very hard to make the OnBoard club as exciting and as much fun as it can be. I’m grateful for the commitment of our attendees who have all been fantastic this year. Who knows, in a few years we may have an Olympian sailor from Otley Sailing Club.”