Volunteer car Driver Colin standing in front of his car in his uniform smiling.

Colin along with other local heroes, has been nominated for making a difference in his community.

Nominations by the public took place earlier this year, and winners will be announced at a ceremony at Chorley Town Hall in September.

BBC Radio Lancashire created the Make a Difference Awards to recognise remarkable people across the country; marking their achievements and contributions to their communities.

The eight categories range from great neighbours and inspirational fundraisers,

to thoughtful volunteers and outstanding community groups. The public were urged to put forward people and groups they thought deserved recognition earlier this year.

Colin was nominated for ‘The Volunteer Award’ by Team NWAS Assurance Coordinator Lucy Earl for giving the ambulance service 25 years as a volunteer. Over those 25 years, Colin has completed over 625,00 miles and moved over 25,000 patients. He turned 80 last December and continues to give his time to the service.

Lucy says: “I am absolutely delighted Colin is a finalist for the volunteer award and confident he will be announced the winner in September. Colin always puts others before himself which is evident by the time, effort and energy he provides to volunteering. I am proud of Colin and looking forward to hearing the results.”

Colin says: “I am obviously over the moon to be one of four finalists out of over 1000 entrants. I feel like a winner already. I just hope I can retain reasonable health and continue the good work for a bit longer.

“I am a people person. I like to be out and about. I live on my own, it gives me something to get out of bed for in the morning and I really enjoy it. I like meeting people. I chat to them and try and put them at ease because some patients get a bit worked up going to the hospital and so I feel like I am helping them, and they are helping me.

“I don’t consider it as work as I enjoy it and that is what it is about. It keeps me going. Thank you to Lucy for your kind words and thanks to NWAS also as this little job keeps me sane and the grey cells working.”

Well done Colin and best of luck.