Tributes paid to Cecil Percy Roberts who has died aged 89

Cecil Percy Roberts, known by many as CP, of New Earswick, was an inspirational and highly regarded leader who organised a huge range of clubs, societies and sports in his work as Youth Organiser for York City Council from 1953 until 1985.

His priority was providing opportunities for teenagers, especially those from difficult backgrounds, believing involvement in youth clubs, sports teams, inter-city competitions, foreign exchanges, drama and music enriched life and would stand anyone in good stead.

Always non-judgemental and a great advocate for the underdog, he won respect and affection from thousands of young people he knew by name throughout York and North Yorkshire.

A former Justice of the Peace, he was also very active on the committees or trusts of many organisations including York and District Trust for Travellers, the Gateway Club (for those with learning difficulties), the Children’s Trust, York Sea Cadets and four cricket clubs, and he was a volunteer at York Minster and a governor at Joseph Rowntree School.

For years, he worked from 7am until 11pm – in his office by day and visiting clubs or supporting events by night, and “debriefing” colleagues in the pub next to his office in Micklegate every Friday night.

He was honoured to receive an MBE in 1985 for services to young people and it is said that with typical modesty, he reckoned it stood for “More Beer ‘Ere.”

Roberts moved seamlessly into retirement as, after moving into Hartrigg Oaks retirement village, he established links between the elderly residents there and pupils at Joseph Rowntree School.

He was supported throughout by his wife Joan who died in 2002.

He is survived by three sons, their wives and six grandchildren.

His funeral will be held at All Saints’ Church, Huntington, at 2.30pm tomorrow.

Instead of flowers, donations should be sent to the CP Roberts Fund for Young People at Joseph Rowntree School, New Earswick, York.