Andrew's resolution reaps rewards (From Northwich Guardian)

Andrew's resolution reaps rewards

8:30am Monday 2nd July 2012 in News By Gina Bebbington

A FUNDRAISING hero has been honoured for his voluntary work by the University of Chester.

Delamere man Andrew Bell, who was diagnosed with severe hearing loss as a child, volunteers to help international students settle in to UK university life and has also raised thousands of pounds for charity in his spare time.

The 25-year-old, currently studying at the university for a masters degree in public health nutrition, has been given an outstanding contribution to community award and a certificate of recognition for his voluntary work.

He said: “I felt pleased and honoured to be recognised by Chester University.

“They above all have given me so much encouragement and guidance over years of study.”

Andrew, a proud supporter of the armed forces, raised £1,000 for Help for Heroes last year and decided to make it his 2012 resolution to raise a further £4,000.

And, although just six months into the year, he has already raised more than £3,700.

“I feel exceptionally proud that I have been recognised and awarded for the work I have been doing and have no intention to hang up the fundraising just yet.

“I am going to aim for as much as possible by the end of the year, beyond £4,000.

“To show my dedication and support to helping the armed forces I will be signing up to become a member of the Royal British Legion, and this will enable me to show my support together with Help for Heroes beyond my fundraising.”

Andrew holds table top sales and collections at Linmere Visitor Centre, at Delamere Forest, where he also works as a volunteer.

As a student mentor, Andrew takes groups on bus trips to local attractions and even invites groups to his home so they can sample traditional English food.