A DUDLEY Library volunteer has been shortlisted for Age UK’s Internet Champion Awards.

Staff at the St James’s Road library nominated 64 year-old David Williams for the accolade for his work in helping out with beginner’s computer sessions and he has now been whittled down to the final four and will find out if he’s won later this month.

David, from Tipton, first enrolled on a beginner’s computer course at the library after being made redundant from his job and suffering a heart attack. He then went on to do several more courses with learndirect and then decided to volunteer at the library helping out other beginners.

Discovering the world wide web has also made a huge difference to David, allowing him keep in regular contact with his family in Australia.

He also used his newly found IT skills to develop a website and write a children’s book about his pet owl, Steffi.

David said: “It was a big surprise to make the final shortlist of just four people for Age UK’s award. Learning how to use a computer and getting online has really changed my life and that’s why I started to volunteer at the library so that I could help others learn too.”

Councillor Khurshid Ahmed, cabinet member for housing, libraries and adult learning said:“We are delighted that David has been shortlisted for this prestigious award. It is a great recognition of the many hours he has put in to help others learn new skills and the lifeline that libraries gave him. We wish David all the best when the winners are announced later this month.”