AN MP is calling on organisations to identify older people who deserve recognition for voluntary work.

Bill Etherington, MP for Sunderland North, said: "I'm delighted to be involved in this excellent initiative to recognise the contribution older people make to our community.

"Many older people have been volunteering for years, helping in hospitals or with children, or just being good neighbours, and they often keep active well into old age.

"These are the heroes of our community."

The initiative is part of the International Year of Volunteers, and has been organised by IYV2001 Group on Older Volunteering.

Nominees will receive a certificate, and an invitation to the House of Commons.

Nominations should be sent to Bill Etherington MP, 7 Bridge House Street, Sunderland, SR1 1TE.