A DISABLED man who has dedicated his time to help both young and old in his community has been nominated as a Northern Echo Neighbour from Heaven.

Tommy Liddle, 49, of Selby Gardens, Consett, County Durham, has nominated his friend John Hinds, 39, of The Bye, for his efforts to improve life for the people of The Grove Community and Residents' Association.

Mr Liddle and Mr Hinds are both disabled and met at The Grove, where Mr Liddle is chairman and Mr Hinds the secretary.

Mr Liddle, who suffers from heart problems, diabetes, asthma and arthritis, said: "He has been a very good friend since I moved here three years ago.

"After I got to know him, I took ill. John offered to take my collie dog in to look after him.

"He was very supportive and came into hospital every day to give me a report on how the dog was doing and looked after all my business."

Mr Hinds has also been instrumental in getting a youth shelter for young people on Thornfield Road and has worked with Groundwork East Durham to secure £30,000 to provide basketball and football facilities for teenagers.

He is also in negotiations with Derwentside District Council to get more play facilities for younger children in the area.

He remains modest about his achievements for the community despite suffering sciatica, arthritis and sclerosis of the spine.

Mr Hinds said: "I am shocked. I only do community work because I like to do it for the sake of the community. If no one does it, then it doesn't get done. It keeps my mind active and we are trying to improve the area as part of the regeneration.

"I am honoured to be nominated but I don't do it for the recognition."

Mr Hinds will be presented with a Neighbour From Heaven certificate, and is in with a chance of winning the main prize - a £1,500 holiday, courtesy of The Cruise Store.

If he wins, Mr Liddle will receive £250 in holiday vouchers.

To nominate someone for an Obsa (Outstanding Behaviour Special Award) - the opposite to an Anti-Social Behaviour Order (Asbo) - fill in the entry form on page 4 of today's Northern Echo.

The closing date is June 1.