A NORTH Yorkshire 73-year-old sailing volunteer was presented with a prestigious award by Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal.

Princess Anne, president of the Royal Yachting Association, presented the award to John Knopp at the RYA Volunteer Awards.

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John Kopp is part of Catterick Garrison Sailing Club and Thornton Steward Sailing Club, and received a Lifetime Commitment Award.

Mr Knopp, originally from Portsmouth, said: "I’m very proud to have received an award but I just enjoy doing it.

"It’s hard work and as I get older it’s getting harder but I love seeing people learning to sail and in particular enjoy helping children learn to sail.

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"I do a lot of work with youngsters at both clubs, particularly in the holidays, and when a nervous nine-year-old goes out on the water and suddenly realises it’s quite exciting, that’s satisfying.”

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