SIR - I would like to write a personal tribute to the late Cyril Lambert. I am sure you will get many such tributes, as he was such a prominent figure in the Thornbury community.

Cyril and his wife Betty were to many of us in the 60s and 70s surrogate parents, shoulders to cry on, people to look up to and most importantly they were Thornbury Youth Club.

Their sense of community, family spirit and team participation was a real inspiration to all of us. Their commitment and unstinting efforts with regard to the youth club were appreciated by so many. From football trips to Belgium, which were feats in themselves, to table football tournaments at the club.

From netball teams to table tennis, and participation in the Thornbury Carnival, they encouraged us all to participate in youth club life in whatever way we wanted. We were treated as individuals and it must have been a nightmare at times, given that we were all teenagers! We all had a sense of family and belonging which extended to our own families being involved in the activities whatever they were.

Many of us met our future husband's and wives through the youth club and I am sure over the years Cyril and Betty must have attended many local weddings! In today's society the Cyril Lambert's of this world are very few and far between and I consider myself honoured to have known such a hero, because that's what he was.

He was hard working, selfless and dedicated to helping many of my generation achieve things they never thought possible. The door of Cyril and Betty's house was always open and they were always pleased to see you. Thank you Cyril and God bless, you will be sorely missed.

Sue Ponting Maple Avenue Thornbury