A DEDICATED volunteer has been awarded a British Empire Medal for his services to help blind and visually impaired residents stay active.

Alan Futter was named in the Queen’s New Year Honours after nearly two decades with the Reading Association for the Blind (RAB).

He is a popular member of the Caversham community and was a trustee with the association since 2000 until he retired in 2015.

As well as being the chairman, he continues to organise a rambling group every Monday and has also volunteered for the Chiltern Society.

Alan said: “The visually impaired ramblers really enjoy being in the open air, exercising, and making new friends.

“The most rewarding element of this activity is the appreciation shown by members of the group due to the fact that you are facilitating their access to the countryside and enabling them to enjoy the fresh air and keep fit.”

Reading Blind Aid Society was formed in 1883 and then changed to RAB in 1926, supporting sight impaired residents ever since.

Brian Head, who has been a rambling group member for the past five years, said: “As a totally blind person, it is an inspiration to take part in walking with such a vibrant group of individuals.”

The exercise from the walks helps to keep members fit and guide dogs also enjoy the walks.

RAB runs a number of different clubs throughout the week, including craft clubs, a rambling group and the Young at Heart group.

Marion Haynes, community fundraiser for RAB, added: “We cannot thank our volunteers enough for their continued support of the Charity.

“Volunteers are rewarded to see sight impaired people fulfilling their lives and keeping active.

“Sight impairment can lead to isolation, loneliness and vulnerability and to be able to enjoy the countryside and form friendships is so important.”

Call: 0118 957 2960 or visit: www.readingassociationfortheblind.org to find out more.