A VOLUNTEER who was inspired to keep helping others after his son's near death experience has been nominated for a national award.

Bob Hills has been volunteering at Sue Ryder Charles Clore Day Hospice in Newbury for the last 10 years.

The 81-year-old still finds time to drive patients from across West Berkshire to appointments two days a week in between visiting his son in hospital in Southampton.

He also does voluntary work for numerous other charities, including raising thousands of pounds for causes like the Rosemary Appeal and is popular among staff, volunteers and patients.

Louise Edwards, Sue Ryder volunteer services coordinator, said: “We are incredibly lucky to have such dedicated and reliable volunteers like Bob to help transport our day hospice patients.

"Without their help many patients would simply be unable to access the care of Sue Ryder’s specialist services.’’

More than 10,500 volunteers across the country help Sue Ryder provide support and care to people living through the challenges of life-limiting illness.

Tracey Le Gallez, head of volunteering at Sue Ryder, added: “Each and every one of our volunteers is invaluable to us and we can’t thank them enough for giving us their time and skills.

"So many people help us by volunteering in our shops, care centres and offices, and in their local community, helping Sue Ryder provide care for people with a life-changing diagnosis”.

If you would like to volunteer or make a donation to support the work of Sue Ryder, call 01772 627374 or visit www.sueryder.org/volunteer