Ruth's club puts her in line for £1,000 prize

Ruth Leckey, 23, has been nominated for a South Yorkshire Police & Fire Young People of the Year award (YOPEY) in recognition of her efforts at the Turnpoint club.

The YOPEY winner receives £500 for themselves and £500 for a cause of their choosing.

Ruth, of Farm View Road, Rotherham, founded the club at the Church on the Corner in Parson Cross, Sheffield, over a year ago, because there was little for children to do in the area. It entertains 35 boys and girls aged 10-16 every Friday evening, some of whom have special needs.

Ruth said she provided discipline and a safe environment, but that her members were good natured overall.

“You do hear of some horror stories,” she said, “but at the very least they try to be on their best behaviour.

“Young people are not as bad as some of the media make out.”

Ruth, who works at St Pius X Catholic High School in Wath-upon-Dearne, was nominated by Police Community Support Officer Laura Simpson.

She is also teaching them right from wrong by imposing some discipline and teaching them respect.”

Entries close on September 30 and a winners' reception will be held at Magna in November. For more information visit www.yopey.org.