A volunteer with Lewis-Manning Hospice Care has become the only person in Dorset to receive a League of Mercy award this year.

Robin Sherwood has been a driver for patients across East Dorset and the Isle of Purbeck for 30 years.

He was chosen along with 21 other volunteers from across the UK for the prestigious award.

It was presented at London’s The Mansion House by Lord Lingfield, President, and the Trustees of the League of Mercy in the presence of Princess Katarina of Yugoslavia.

Robin said: “I am thrilled and honoured to win this award.

“It really means a lot to me.

“I think I have volunteered around 10,000 hours in the past 30 years and driven the equivalent of around the world four times for Lewis-Manning Hospice Care and I’ve loved every moment of it.

“In early 1992 my wife saw an advert in the Daily Echo.

“Early retirement had become a little boring and I missed the 3 P’s (People, Purpose and Pattern).

“Lewis-Manning Hospice Care provided all three and I have thoroughly enjoyed the last 30 years and the contribution I have made to this worthwhile charity.

“Volunteering is such a special experience.

“The best thing about it for me is the friendships I have made with staff, volunteers and patients.

“If you’re thinking of helping and supporting a charity please give it a go, it may surprise you.”

Clare Gallie, CEO, Lewis-Manning Hospice Care, said: “Robin is a true inspiration and really deserved this amazing award.

“We quite simply wouldn’t be able to run the hospice without people like Robin, who always go that extra mile for their community.

“Robin has dedicated so many years to Lewis-Manning and we are thrilled that the League of Mercy has recognised this fantastic achievement.

“He puts smiles on everyone’s faces, from the staff, to the patients, to the other volunteers.

“Well done Robin and thank you from the bottom of our hearts for all you’ve done for the organisation.”

The League of Mercy is a charity dedicated to honouring and recognising the incredible work of volunteers.

It was founded in 1899 by Royal Charter of Queen Victoria and re-founded as a UK registered charity in 1999.

• lewis-manning.org.uk