South Swindon MP Robert Buckland is calling for residents to nominate a community hero as part of Volunteers Week 2020.

The annual celebration of the contribution millions of people make across the UK through volunteering is due to take place from between June 1 and 7. It will focus on volunteers who took on coronavirus-related volunteering roles to help communities cope with the pandemic.

Email robert.buckland.mp@parliament .uk with your full name and address, the name of your nominee and the reason why you are nominating that person. All entries must be received by May 31.

Mr Buckland said: “Here in Swindon, we are extremely fortunate to have hundreds of volunteers who carry out fantastic work every day, making a huge difference in our local community.

"We should be proud of the great work being carried out by our secret army of volunteers and this work should be highlighted and our volunteers celebrated, especially during Volunteer Week.

“Throughout the pandemic, I have heard so many amazing stories of neighbours looking out for elderly people and those who are vulnerable in our community. The amount of people who have selflessly come forward to volunteer reflects the strong sense of community spirit we have here in Swindon. This truly makes me a proud MP."

“I am calling on residents to nominate a local community champion who has gone out of their way at this difficult time. The selfless work of all of those nominated will be celebrated on my website and I will be issuing Volunteer Week Certificates to those runners up and winners who have been especially chosen for going that extra mile.

“I hope you will join me in celebrating the amazing work of our local volunteers here in Swindon and helping to ensure that they receive the recognition and thanks they truly deserve."