A KIND-HEARTED volunteer has been awarded the ‘gift of Christmas’ as a thanks for all his hard work throughout the year.

Colin Aldridge, chairman of East Oxford Community Association, stood out from more than 100 nominees for Bidfood’s Christmas Gift.

The award recognises his commitment to his local community and dedication to the hospitality industry during Christmas.

Not only does he do more than is expected in his voluntary job at the association, which he does on the side of his day job, he also volunteers more than 20 hours every week at local community centres.

As well as helping run the community association, each year Mr Aldridge organises several Christmas events for people in need, which pays for using generous donations from the local community.

He has worked over the Christmas period for the past five years and has sacrificed valuable time with his family to give people who would otherwise be on their own a memorable Christmas.

Of his award, Mr Aldridge said: “I was very surprised when I found out I’d won and I’m so thankful for the team of volunteers I work with, they have all played a huge role in this.

“Everyone is so grateful to have something like this going on at Christmas, as well as having someone to enjoy it with.”

Mr Aldridge also takes care of his disabled wife who gets to choose what restaurant they go to with their family as part of his prize, which also includes a Virgin Experience Voucher.

Bidfood is one of the UK's largest food wholesalers.

For more information on the firm's Christmas Gift winners go to bidfood.co.uk/bidfood-christmas-gift