A VOLUNTEER has been honoured for his life-changing work with deaf and hard of hearing people across Northumberland, which includes a monthly drop-in clinic in Ponteland.

Action on Hearing Loss volunteer Michael Holroyd was presented with the charity’s People’s Champion award for his tireless commitment in helping run drop-in clinics across the region.

The clinics offer people with hearing loss the opportunity to have their NHS hearing aids maintained regularly, collect new batteries and gain information about hearing loss.

Michael, from Alnwick, has been a volunteer with Help to Hear Northumberland for three years and each month covers drop-ins at several North Northumberland locations, including Ponteland.

He said: “Volunteering with Action on Hearing Loss is tremendously rewarding and enjoyable to be able to improve the lives of deaf and hard of hearing people in my local area.

“I really appreciate winning this award and am happy I have helped such a worthwhile charity make a real difference to local people.”

Action on Hearing Loss community support officer Anne Shilton said: “Mike has a cheerful manner and can make the people who use our services feel at ease in often unfamiliar surroundings.

“He’s encouraging and supportive to everyone and we’re so pleased he’s won this award.”