A TEENAGER, believed to be the country’s youngest Neighbourhood Watch Coordinator, has won national praise for his tireless community work.

Andrew Donnelly, who turns 16 on Wednesday (July 23), helps out at Ushaw Moor Kids’ Club, in County Durham, teaching children about Internet safety and organising events.

Now he has been highly commended in the Inspiring Youth category at the national Neighbourhood and Home Watch Awards, held in London.

Andrew, who is about to start a horticulture apprenticeship at East Durham College, attended the awards with relatives and supporters.

He said: “It was really good.

“I enjoy what I do. It’s fun and I enjoy seeing the progress the kids make through me helping them.”

John Booth, chair of Ushaw Moor Kids’ Club, said: “Andrew does a tremendous job delivering timely personal and Internet safety information to help children from harm.

“Kids’ Club is very proud of Andrew’s achievement and extremely lucky to have such a dedicated young man as a volunteer.”

Michael Banks, deputy chief constable of Durham Police and the Association of Chief Police Officer’s lead for citizens in policing, said: “Neighbourhood Watch volunteers play a vital part in keeping communities safe and reducing crime.

“Police colleagues up and down the country are delighted to work with residents to make their areas safe and nice places to live and really appreciate the hard work that people put in.”