A STALWART of Craven's football circuit has been awarded a medal for 50 years of service to the beautiful game.

George Saunders, 85, of Roughaw Close in Skipton, has served on various committees in different guises since 1947 and was commended for that service by the West Riding FA with a special medal engraved with his name on the back. The medal was awarded at a special ceremony at the Three Links Club in Skipton last Thursday.

Mr Saunders started his career with Gargrave FC, playing as a goalkeeper, in 1947 and began to work on the club's committee. From there, he joined the committee at Skipton Methodist Club, which later became Skipton Town. He then moved to Skipton LMS.

It was in the season of 1961-62 that the Craven Football League came calling and Mr Saunders joined the committee as the fixture secretary.

Not content with sorting out the fixtures for the league, Mr Saunders took on the job of treasurer for the Craven FA at a time when the association was experiencing financial difficulties. He stayed in this position for more than 20 years.

Having spent 50 years watching football in Craven, Mr Saunders is able to clearly see the changes that have taken place. Nowadays, he says even Sunday league players take their inspiration from Premiership stars and behave badly. Mr Saunders told the Herald that he wishes that players would just behave better and stop giving referees such a hard time.

As for his award, George said it was very nice to have his achievements recognised.

"It's a nice way to say thank you," he said.