Daniel's always getting stuck in helping others

A teenager who gives up hours of his time to help community groups has been recognised for his efforts.

Daniel Bowler, of Rothley, has been put forward for a Lord Lieutenant's Award.

The scheme celebrates and rewards achievements by young people in Leicestershire.

Daniel has been nominated in the young volunteer category.

For the past three years, the 13-year-old has been helping Mountsorrel Railway Project, which is restoring a disused branch line running from Swithland sidings to Bond Lane, in Mountsorrel.

He was nominated by Malcolm Law, from the project.

Mr Law said: "Daniel's always getting stuck into what's thrown at him, putting in lots of hard graft.

"He also helps out with the Wildlife Warriors at Mountsorrel Railway, running ecology activities, and that devotion has enabled 150 children to experience and learn about wildlife around Mountsorrel.

"He thrives on bringing enjoyment to other people. But there's much more to him than just this."

Daniel also helps Mountsorrel Cubs, planning games and activities alongside leaders.

Charnwood district Scout commissioner Carol Black was full of praise for Daniel.

She said: "He's always enthusiastic, whether that's pitching a tent or preparing lunch and his IT knowledge has been invaluable when we run power points or work on the laptop. He's a great asset."

Daniel's mum, Caroline, also nominated him for his work in the community, and for his help during her diagnosis of cancer and chemotherapy treatment in April last year.

She said: "Daniel's always helped others. He's special because he always goes that extra mile.

"I run the Wildlife Warriors at Mountsorrel Railway and he was a great support helping me to prepare the sessions so they could continue.

"I couldn't have done it without him while I was going through my chemotherapy and it gave me something to focus on other than my illness.

"He's had a very difficult year, but has stayed happy and helpful and is a wonderful role model."

The youngster, who attends Humphrey Perkins School, has an exemplary attendance record.

He said he was shocked to be put forward for the award.

"I don't know too much about the award but I've never been put forward for something like this before," he said. "I don't volunteer for a reward but it's nice to be recognised, even if I don't get to win."

The awards are open to teenagers living in the county.

There are five categories: volunteer of the year, braveheart of the year, voice of the year, scientist of the year and artist of the year.

One of the five winners will then be chosen as the overall winner.

Last year, the top award was won by Sophie Bingham, a youth sport trust ambassador from Kibworth.

Lord Lieutenant of Leicestershire Jennifer, Lady Gretton, said: "One of the joys of this role is having the opportunity of meeting young people and seeing some truly remarkable examples of volunteering in their communities.

"I'm delighted with the way my award has helped to raise the profile of their achievements."

To find out more about the awards, call 0116 305 6053, or visit:

www.leics.gov.uk/llawards