A WINSFORD youth worker who has dedicated 30 years of his life to helping young people in the town is to have his efforts recognised by the Queen.

Bob Barton, of Carisbrook Drive, will attend a garden party at Buckingham Palace in two weeks in recognition of his work with the Prince's Trust.

Bob, 58, works for Cheshire Youth Service and has helped hundreds of vulnerable children during his three decades working in Winsford.

He said: "It is fantastic to see people who I have helped now bringing along their own children to the New Images youth club.

"It is all about gaining the trust of children because youngsters need an adult that they can trust.

"I had role models when I was younger and it is important that I pass that on.

"Many of the children I work with are vulnerable and it is often very challenging but when you see them make something of themselves it is fantastic."

Bob's wife Glen has paid tribute to her husband, she said: "We see people all the time who say that if it wasn't for Bob they wouldn't have been able to stay on the straight and narrow.

"He has helped so many young people and I'm extremely proud of him.

"In many ways it has made our family life difficult because he is so committed to helping young people.

"He has been at the centre of the community for so long and I am absolutely thrilled that he is being recognised for all his hard work."

Bob is now looking forward to his royal garden party, he said: "I've never been down there before so it will be a great experience.

"There is always a need for people to help young, vulnerable people and I am still committed to doing that."