Jerseyman Des O’Connor (72) won the regional ‘Hand of Friendship’ award in a countrywide project organised by Luton First to promote friendship and neighbourliness in the community.
Mr O’Connor was nominated by his friend and fellow volunteer, Barbara Gouyet, who felt that his personality traits and friendly work for the Jersey Across charity should be recognised.
He has been a volunteer for the Jersey Across charity for the last six years.
After his wife, Eunice, died in January 2000 he decided to continue putting his nursing skills to good use by joining the charity.
He said: ‘When Eunice had a stroke, I learnt some physiotherapy and how to deal with epilepsy from the hospital staff at Overdale – so I thought I could still put my experience to good use at Jersey Across.’
