Big-hearted volunteer up for award (From Stourbridge News)

Big-hearted volunteer up for award

2:15pm Tuesday 5th February 2008 in Local By Lucy Reynolds

A RETIRED council officer who now volunteers his time to help kids analyse books has been nominated for this year's Mayor Civic Awards.

Sean Ward from Tividale splits his time between four schools in the borough working with gifted kids to analyse books, talk about the authors, storylines and characters.

The youngsters he works with can already read but sometimes get bored in the class and become disruptive as they are far more advanced than their peers.

Mr Ward has been involved in the reading scheme for just over a year after reading about the pilot scheme appealing for bookworms.

He said: "I work with able readers, kids who already know how to read and we talk about the books.

"We help to get them focused and help them with literacy as kids don't do as much reading these days."

As well as analysing books, the kids involved also look at the history of the publications and have the chance to perform - trying out breathing techniques and tongue twisters.

On being nominated for the Thomas Attwood award for help in education, Mr Ward said: "I didn't realise I was having an effect on the kids, so being nominated for an award is just a bonus; it is the cherry on the cake."

Mr Ward helps out at four schools, Wallbrook School in Coseley, Hurst Hill in Sedgley, Quarry Bank Primary school and Wren's Nest in Dudley.

The Dudley Mayor Civic Awards are open to the silent stars of the borough who dedicate their time to help the community.

There are four categories - Duncan Edwards for sport, Cedric Hardwicke for arts, Frank Foley for community spirit and Thomas Attwood for education.

Nominations for unsung heroes should be in by Friday February 8; and the winners will be announced at an award ceremony in March.

To nominate, visit www.dudley.gov.uk or collect a nomination form from borough libraries and leisure centres.

Send completed forms to Civic Awards nominations, marketing and communications unit, Dudley Council, FREEPOST MID22308, Dudley DY1 1BR.