A VOLUNTEER from the Rainham and South Hornchurch branch of St John Ambulance has been named as the local hero of the year after winning an award.

Ashraf Uddin, 33 who volunteers at the branch based in Southend Road, South Hornchurch was presented with the award for local hero at the annual Neighbourhood Excellence Initiative Awards last week.

Ashraf said: “I was really surprised to get the award because for me volunteering is more about a team effort and some of the people I have been working have volunteered for more than 25 years.

“But it is nice to finally be recognised.”

Ashraf, who lives in Newham was presented with the award by the first winner of the BBC’s The Apprentice Tim Campbell.

As part of the prize, the Rainham branch of St John Ambulance are set to be given a cheque of �3,000 which will be used to buy a defibrillator.

Ashraf said: “The money is going to make a huge amount of difference because its going to be used to buy a defibrillator

which is so important because it will help to save lives.”

Ashraf, who teaches at a school in Dagenham was one of just five community leaders who won the award for their outstanding contribution to their communities.

Ashraf first started volunteering 11 years ago after completing a first aid course.

He gives up at least ten hours a week helping people out at various events including West Ham football matches and taking elderly and disabled residents to their weekly clubs.