A DEDICATED Oldswinford volunteer who was awarded an MBE in the New Year's honours list has urged people to follow his lead and give up their time for a good cause.

Chris Fonteyn, aged 64, said he was delighted to receive the accolade, which honours his services to the community.

The retired banker devotes his time to many organisations, including the National Trust and RNLI and also ensures children get the best from their education as a school governor.

Mr Fonteyn, of Field Lane, said although it could be a "juggling act" managing all of his commitments, he finds it very enjoyable and rewarding.

Education is a subject close to Mr Fonteyn's heart and he said it was “really rewarding” to be the chairman of governors at Wollescote Primary School and vice chairman at King Edwards VI College.

He is also a trustee of Top Church Training, a charity in Brierley Hill, which provides intense practical support and mentoring service to young people who are not in employment, education or training.

For the last 34 years he has been an avid supporter of the RNLI and has helped to raise thousands of pounds each year as chairman of the Stourbridge branch.

The Stourbridge Rotarian is also chairman of the National Trust's Wyre Forest and District Centre, which helps to increase awareness of the work of the trust and encourage volunteering.

Receiving the award was "quite humbling", said Mr Fonteyn, who has been a local magistrate for the past decade.

He added: "The award is certainly an honour for me. It can also be seen as a reflection of the strong support locally for voluntary organisations.

"Everyone should be encouraged to get involved in voluntary work, it is so rewarding. New friendships are made and it enables people to discover new interests and to and to build on existing ones.

"Many organisations could not exist without the help and commitment of volunteers. So I would encourage everyone to consider giving a hand to a local group - there is a wide choice - and to get involved."