Recognition for youngster

Biggleswade youngster Andrew Catherall, 15 has been helping others since he was 11.

From volunteering with St John Ambulance to gardening and picking up litter, Andrew has devoted himself to selfless work for the community.

Andrew, of The Close, has now received recognition for his work after being put forward for the Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Young People of the Year competition.

The teenager – who was nominated by Sandy Town Councillor and community stalwart Ken Lynch – could win up to £800 in cash or a host of other prizes if he wins or finishes as a runner-up.

Ken said: “Andrew is a kind, caring, enthusiastic and modest young man who does a huge amount for his community.

“During the summer he was doing voluntary work almost every single day, and I think many in the community would agree with me when I say I believe he is worthy of this award.

“He’s one of the most outstanding characters I’ve ever seen in more than 50 years of dealing with young people.”

Andrew’s voluntary work has included clearing elderly people’s gardens and restoring the grounds at Shortmead House in Biggleswade.

YOPEY founder Tony Gearing said: “Andrew is a dedicated volunteer who is selfless and thinks of others first.”

The University of Bedfordshire will be hosting the awards at its professional theatre in Bedford in December.

To nominate a young person for an award log on to www.yopey.org or write to YOPEY, PO Box 236, Newmarket, CB8 1DP, enclosing an SAE for a paper entry form.

The deadline for entries is Wednesday, October 31.