A COMMUNITY stalwart has been tipped for a national award in recognition of his work over the last 20 years.

Mel Diack, 61, from Mitton Road, Whalley, has been shortlisted for The National Diversity Award’s Positive Role Model Award for Age.

Over the past two decades he has given up his free time to help thousands of young people from disadvantaged backgrounds in the Ribble Valley into jobs, education and training.

He is the chairman of the Clitheroe Youth Forum, which he set up 15 years ago, and has raised almost £400,000 which has been put towards activities such as Duke of Edinburgh Awards, residentials, sailing, fishing, camping and art.

He was awarded an MBE in 2005 for community work across East Lancashire and dedication to supporting disadvantaged young people.

Mr Diack said: “I’m chuffed to bits and I’m really looking forward to the bash.

“It’s nice to get recognised in this way and it’s a great honour.

“I really enjoy what I do and I wish I could do more.

“To see a young person grow and boost their confidence is fantastic.”

In 2004 he received a National Lottery Award, which was followed by a Childline Award and a National Charity Award in 2005.

More than 21,000 nominations and votes were received this year paying tribute to inspirational individuals and groups nationwide.

The Hurlingham Club in London will hold the prestigious black-tie event on Friday, September 26. TV personality Brian Dowling will host the ceremony alongside CBeebies presenter Cerrie Burnell.

Mel is currently leading a group of 23 youngsters researching into airmen who crashed in the Forest of Bowland and Ribble Valley during the Second World War.

The Clitheroe Youth Forum won a £27,000 grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund for its ‘We Shall Remember Them’ project after a two-and-a-half-year appeal for funding.

The group has so far discovered the names and nationalities of the 26 airmen who lost their lives in 15 accidents in the area during the war.