A POPULAR volunteer who helps Rubery youngsters has received national recognition.

Darren Walker has been volunteering at Jellybabies Nursery and Pre-School, based at Longbridge Methodist Church, for the past five years.

The 21-year-old plans activities at the nursery, which have previously included a pirates party, a circus themed day and breakfast with Santa.

He also organises outings, develops the nature garden, fund-raisers and organises parent workshops.

His contribution to the nursery led to him being nominated in the outstanding volunteer at an early years category in the Pre-School Learning Alliance Volunteer of the Year awards.

The category is the most fiercely contested with more than 200 nominations.

Judges said they were impressed by the number of letters from parents, staff members and people in the wider community who wrote in to support his nomination.

It lead to them naming him the runner up in the category.

Jacqueline Walker, the nursery manager, said: “He is not paid at all at Jellybabies and also coaches gymnastics voluntarily for six hours a week, to enable more children to attend gymnastic sessions.

"The judges said that Darren’s hard work is an inspiration to others to become volunteers and they are glad that he is receiving the recognition that he clearly deserves.

“It is an amazing achievement for Darren, and Jellybabies Nursery.”