A DEDICATED Marlow man who looks out for his elderly neighbours has been praised by politicians for his tireless work.

Keith Carter, of Sandygate Close, takes the safety of his community very seriously, volunteering to become a ‘Community Champion’ to safeguard his neighbourhood.

Instead of taking his retirement slowly, the 59-year-old is as busy as ever, protecting his neighbours from unscrupulous traders in conjunction with Trading Standards.

And the selfless volunteer claims the county council title only reinforces the work he already carries out in his community.

He said: "I live down a road with predominately elderly people and I had always looked out for them. Officially becoming a volunteer didn’t change this, it enhanced what I did.

"I am always on alert for suspicious activities and only last week went out and approached some men wandering our road. It turned out they were from the council!

"You can’t take risks though. Better to check than not. My neighbours all ask for my advice and I am always glad to share it.

"I would encourage everyone to get involved with volunteering, in which ever area interests you and even if it is for a few hours a month. It all mounts up and it all helps."

Keith’s volunteering interest was triggered after a leaflet from Trading Standards appealing for volunteers was dropped through his door.

The leaflet sought residents to become Community Champions for their local areas, acting as the eyes and ears of what goes on.

Since then, Keith has walked miles delivering Trading Standards leaflets to flood victims earlier this year making them aware of rogue traders trying to cash in on their bad fortune.

He also drove around the area checking livestock were safe in fields.

And his hard work has been recognised by Bucks County Council as it celebrated hundreds of volunteers up and down the county during last week’s National Volunteering Week.

Martin Phillips, BCC Cabinet Member for Community Engagement, said: "Keith's story is inspirational but he is one of many dedicated and highly-valued volunteers who are helping to make Buckinghamshire a better place to live.

"There are so many opportunities for people to become involved in their own communities and influence real change for the better."

For more details on how to become a volunteer, go to http://www.buckscc.gov.uk/community/helping-your-community/volunteering/