BRITISH Lions legend John Bentley has given York RUFC an official Seal of Approval to recognise their work with city youngsters.

The Clifton Parkers are the first club in North Yorkshire to be rewarded by the RFU for theircommitment to developing young players.

The Seal of Approval is the governing body's way of examining, maintaining and improving the provision of rugby in the youth sections of clubs.

And Bentley, who toured with the successful Lions side which beat South Africa in 1997, turned up at the club for a ceremony to hand over certificates from the RFU and Sport England to youth team chiefs.

Club chairman Niall Barry said the award reflected the work done by people who were dedicated to Clifton Park.

"A number of our first-team players have come through the youth system, including Stu Davies, Sam Arkle and Nick Ventress," Barry said.

"With people like John Bentley coming to present and a number of the first team lads helping out with coaching, it shows the young lads that it can come true - they can play at a higher level and it is not just a dream."

Every week, as many as 260 girls and boys aged five to 15 turn out at Clifton Park to develop their fledgling rugby skills.

Bentley, who is marketing manager for Leeds Tykes, said he pleased to be able to present the award in person at York.

"We have a wonderful relationship with York and this award is great recognition for the hard work that has gone in here," he said.

"That work, of course, will be ongoing. I think success for York rugby club isn't to turn out 15 teams for under 12's who play 20 games a season. Success is to start the season with those teams, and get more involved - to grow and give opportunities."

Bentley, who was questioned by youngsters about the famous try he scored from 70 metres against the Gauteng Lions in that 1997 tour, said he never tired of being asked about it.

He added: "The wonderful thing about that tour was that it was a fantastic trip preceding two unhappy tours. It was a great time."

Updated: 08:52 Saturday, December 03, 2005