Local Lib Dem Peter York wins lifetime achievement award

Lord Robin Teverson, a former MEP for Plymouth, presented local Liberal Democrat Peter York with a Lifetime Achievement Award in the city on Friday.

Peter, who lives in St Judes, is Honorary President of the city Lib Dems and is the first person from the area to be honoured by the awards panel. The Harriet Smith Distinguished Service Award is the highest reward open to party members who have demonstrated excellence and commitment.

"This is a wonderful achievement. The panel only looks for people who deserve recognition for their hard work, long service, and dedication, at whatever level. These are special awards to people for whom public recognition is long overdue," said local party Chair Hugh Janes. "It's very exciting that someone from Plymouth has at last been recognised and we are delighted for Peter. No one deserves it more."

Peter joined the Liberal Party in 1969 and has been an active member for nearly 50 years. He first stood as a candidate for Plymouth Council in 1970 and has stood in nearly every election since, at both local and county level.

Dylan Morris, a member of the local party and a student at Plymouth University, received the award on Peter's behalf from Party President Sal Brinton at the autumn conference in Brighton, which was shown live on national television.