Melbourne youth worker Les Twentyman dies

Melbourne youth and social justice campaigner Les Twentyman has died at the age of 76.

A strong advocate for Melbourne’s western suburbs, the Les Twentyman Foundation helped vulnerable young people through education and outreach programs.

A spokesman for the foundation announced his death on Saturday morning, saying Twentyman would be “greatly missed”.

“Les inspired us all with his lifelong dedication to helping those in need and his profound contribution to our community has positively changed the lives of thousands of young Victorians and their families,” the statement said.

“In life Les was never afraid to say what was needed to be said, he gave a voice to the voiceless and leaves a legacy of helping the disadvantaged and those in need that will live long past his extraordinary life.

“Our thoughts, love and prayers are with Les’s wife Cherie and his family at this most difficult time.”

More to come.