College student awarded young volunteer of the year

A college student from Flintshire was recently presented with the Young Volunteer of the Year Award at the West Cheshire Youth & Community Awards.

James Oddie, who studies at Coleg Cambria Northop, was nominated for the award by the Cheshire Centre for Independent Living, where he currently volunteers one evening a week at their ‘Buzz Group’; a social group for young people with disabilities.

James who is studying Animal Care at the college attended this group himself when he was younger and decided to be a volunteer, as he wanted to give back to a group that he had benefited from.

The Awards recognise young people in West Cheshire to dedicated individuals or groups who support 13 to 25 year olds to help them to thrive, grow and flourish.

He also volunteers at the library in the Storyhouse in Chester, at Hayracks Farm in Thornton Heath and is a member of the Cheshire Youth Commission for Police and Crime where he represents young people with learning difficulties.

Jo Fisher, tutor at Coleg Cambria Northop said: “James is an extremely dedicated young man who has been recognised for his tireless work supporting others. A much deserved award, well done.”