A VOLUNTEER who goes the extra mile to support his community has been recognised with an award.

Chris Miles, from Sherburn, was presented with the Neighbourhood Watch Co-ordinator of the Year Award, sponsored by Safer Ryedale, after being described as always enthusiastic and willing to be involved in any matters which benefit the community of Sherburn.

The award was presented by Assistant Chief Constable of North Yorkshire Police Sue Cross at the Neighbourhood Watch annual general meeting in Malton.

Chris, who is a self-employed window cleaner, is the co-ordinator for the Neighbourhood Watch Scheme in Sherburn. He has worked together with PCSOs to develop Cocoon watch, a scheme to keep an eye on the elderly people in the village when the weather conditions are bad and they cannot get out.

Chris also instigated the Nominated Neighbour Scheme in his area. In addition to these duties he is involved with Sherburn School.

Steve Law, lead co-ordinator, said: “It is accepted that crime levels reduce when there is an active scheme in place and the fear of crime improves when people know what is going on in their area and how to seek help and support.”

Inspector Tim Hutchinson, of Ryedale Police, added: “I am delighted that Chris’s work has been rewarded by the co-ordinator of the year award. It’s because of people like him working with your local police that we can keep Ryedale as safe as we can.”