ALREADY popular among work colleagues at his Whitefield firm, kind-hearted Martyn Edwards has now been given the thumbs-up from his local sports club.

Martyn (38), who is the sales and marketing manager at car specialists Academy Group, based at the Albert Close Trading Estate, has been helping out at the Burnley Boys Club, which is based near his home town of Darwen.

In recognition of his efforts, Martyn has been given the volunteer of the year award from the club, a children's charity that provides activities for about 150 boys and girls.

Martyn heard about the club because Academy sponsors its annual golf day.

He said: “I decided to get involved 12 months ago. I started to go down every Thursday to get the kids playing sport such as football and street hockey.

“I was absolutely gobsmacked to have won, and really proud because my name will be on that trophy forever now.

“I want to carry on with my work there for as long as possible because I find it so rewarding. I am really touched because the kids have had an input into the decision.”

Martyn added: “They are really good kids. I have no children of my own so I really enjoy giving something back in this way.

“It’s great fun and they bring out my childish side.”

Burnley Boys Club leader Glynn Skelton said Martyn quickly struck up a fantastic rapport with the children.

He said: “He genuinely enjoys working with the kids and they get that back from him. You can tell they enjoying working with him.

“That’s great because sometimes it can take a bit of time for trust to develop.

“Martyn is an invaluable member of our team and I don’t think there was one member of staff who didn’t have him down for volunteer of the year when we asked for the nominations.”