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Why Alan, 70, is still a Barnardo's boy at heart

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A former Barnardo's boy, who returned to help the charity years later as a volunteer, has received the highest honour it can bestow.

Alan Dearman, 70, of Melton, was presented with the President's Certificate of Appreciation for his dedication to charitable work.

Born in Nottingham, Alan was taken into Barnardo's care in 1950. He had never known his mother, who died when he was very young, and at the time did not know his father.

Alan, an only child, "hated" his first care home but soon settled when he was moved.

"The second one was different – in fact, I probably had the best four years of my life," he said.

"I got treatment for my polio which I had never had before and I started living the life of a normal eight-year-old boy."

In 1955, Barnardos organised training for the youngster and he began learning the skills which would help him get a job making cricket bats for Gunn and Moore and later repairing artificial limbs for various hospitals.

Alan has been a regular at Barnardo's events since he left its care in the 1960s, raising awareness about the charity's work. He became a full-time volunteer 15 years ago.

He has recently been presented with the President's Certificate of Appreciation for all his hard work.

Alan said of his award: "I think it's the first time I've ever been at a loss for words, I was totally gob-smacked.

"I certainly didn't expect it and I didn't do the work for Barnardo's for the award – it's nice to have my work recognised, though."

Sam Monaghan, director of Barnardo's Midlands, said: "I am absolutely delighted Alan has been given the President's Award.

"He has worked tirelessly to support Barnardo's in the Midlands and the whole country and he has made a huge difference to the understanding of our work with vulnerable children and young people.

"I hope he will continue to volunteer for us for many years to come."

Alan has also won the Midlands Volunteer of the Year award from the Marsh Trust for his work with Barnardo's.

Why Alan, 70, is still a Barnardo's boy at heart


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