Andrew Stone, an  enhanced community first responder (eCFR) with the Tameside Team, won a BBC Radio Manchester Make a Difference Award after being nominated by his daughter, Rebecca.

Andrew was recognised for his work as a volunteer responder for NWAS and his involvement with local scouts.

Rebecca described her dad as a great role model who is always looking for ways to help others; “He is a pretty good role model and does so much for his local community. He is incapable of sitting still and is always out doing something in the community,”

Andrew has volunteered with us for more than 13 years. As well as responding to 999 calls, he supports our Community Resuscitation Team by helping to train new community first responders (CFRs) and mentoring and supporting colleagues in his area.

He says: “I don’t do it for awards. It was unreal at first, but it’s a really nice feeling that what I’m doing is recognised and appreciated by others.

“It’s also a good chance to talk to others about the opportunities out there for people who want to get involved.”

Grant Brown, a community first responder and team leader in Glossop, was also recognised for his contribution to his local community. He won the Outstanding Volunteer of the Year award at this month’s Glossopdale Community Champions Awards.

Grant helps keep more than 50 community public access defibrillators (CPADs) across the area ready for use. He regularly checks the equipment and works with local defibrillator guardians to ensure devices are returned and made available to the community as quickly as possible after use.

Alongside this, Grant regularly responds to emergencies as a CFR, making himself available most evenings and weekends around his full-time job and family life.

Community Resuscitation Development Officer Samantha Sellars says; “Andrew and Grant are fantastic examples of the difference our volunteers make in their local communities. They give up their time to respond to emergencies, support other volunteers and help make sure life-saving equipment is ready when it’s needed.

Their awards are well deserved, and it’s great to see their hard work and dedication recognised.”