A PRIDE of Swindon winner has spoken of his joy at scooping last year’s award and is encouraging others to nominate for 2017.

Ken Stronach, 46, who lives in Gorse Hill, was named Pride of Swindon in 2016 for his work in helping youngsters in the local community.

Through G5 Martial Arts, a small non-profit organisation located in Gipsy Lane, Ken uses the art form to help young people gain self-confidence and choose peaceful solutions to situations they face in everyday life.

Ken, who is often seen with his beloved Bullmastiff Merv, said: “It was great to be given the award; it was very unexpected. It’s nice to be given that kind of recognition and nice for the club to be a part of it.

“It was also good to be able to go along and hear other people’s stories and find out what they are doing. So many people have unselfishly given their time to helping others in their community. It’s good when we can do something like this that brings people together.”

Merv is a registered therapy dog and Ken describes him as his “sidekick”. He takes Merv around old people’s homes as a form of therapy for the residents and often visits schools teaching the kids about dogs.

Speaking highly of Ken’s work, his nominator told the judges last year: “Although his work with this [G5 Martial Arts] group is excellent, I am actually nominating Ken for his voluntary work with older people in Swindon.

“In his busy week, Ken makes time to visit up to six older peoples’ dwellings every week. He takes Merv with him and at each home they meet about 20 old people. The residents are always pleased to have a visitor, but are especially pleased to be visited by a dog. Ken and Merv’s visits are the highlight of many of the old people’s weeks.”

Mayor of Swindon Eric Shaw officially launched the Pride of Swindon Awards 2017 at the beginning of December, calling on residents across the town to shine a light on those individuals and groups who have gone above and beyond the call of duty for the good of their community and the wider town.

All nominations for the 2017 awards will be considered by a panel of judges before those who are shortlisted will be invited to attend a glittering presentation event at Steam on March 16 when they will be honoured with a special badge and certificate.

They will also find their names honoured on a plaque in the Central Library which will be unveiled later in the year.

To nominate someone visit www.swindon.gov.uk/prideofswindon where you will find a nomination form.

The closing date for entries is Friday, January 27 at noon.