A MAN from Pickering who used to play for Bolton Wanderers has been named as one of the finalists in ‘Inspirational Generation’ – a competition to find those over 60 with an inspiring story to tell.

Clifford Hughes, 88, saw off opposition from across the North East and has been shortlisted as a regional finalist. A keen sportsman, from 1947 to 1955 Clifford played for Bury FC and later, Bolton Wanderers. He was a sporting inspiration to his two sons - one became a sprinter and the other a rugby player.

Religion has also been a constant for Clifford. In 1962 he and his wife were chosen to represent the north as part of Christian Family Year Celebration, and later that year the couple sat opposite the Queen at the celebration’s closing

ceremony.

Inspirational Generation is run by retirement housebuilder McCarthy and Stone and is designed to “to put the spotlight on the nation’s baby boomers, and to celebrate the many ways older people inspire the younger generation”.

Clifford said: “I decided to enter the search for the Inspirational Generation because I wanted to share my life experiences and memories.

“Family and the Christian church has helped to keep me grounded all these years, and is something I believe to be very important for younger generations.” One winner will be selected by judges, which includes Gloria Hunniford, and awarded a £2,000 prize. Nine regional winners will also get £200 for a charity of their choice.