A Stockport local legend has been awarded one of Greater Manchester's highest honours for 70 years of voluntary work in the community.

Charles Hamilton, also known as 'Skip,' was presented with the High Sheriff of Greater Manchester Award for volunteering with the Scouts and children's hospitals in Stockport.

The special award is presented to local people who have shown outstanding service to the community.

Yvonne Hewitt, Stockport NHS Foundation Trust Voluntary Manager said: "Skip is a much-loved and hugely valued volunteer who has brought smiles to young patients on our children's ward.

"We're all delighted for him to have his dedication and service recognised with the High Sheriff of Greater Manchester Award," she added.

The 90-year-old started his voluntary work in the Scouts 70 years ago, then worked at Marple Orthopaedic Hospital, Cherry Tree Hospital and Stockport Infirmary.

Today, he volunteers at Stepping Hill Hospital's Treehouse children's unit, where he's been volunteering since 2000.

He teaches young patients how to play games from around the world, particularly making paper aeroplanes, and also tends to the Treehouse gardens to keep them looking good.

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Skip was also awarded £500 as part of the honour, which he donated to the Treehouse to buy new plants for the garden and new toys to keep children entertained and distracted on the unit.

In 2013, he received a 'Pride for Britain' award for years of service, and last year, Treehouse unit hosted a 90th birthday party to say thank you for his hard work and dedication.

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