John Haslam, of Runcorn, is an unpaid volunteer who uses his own car to take children and their families to the Butterfly Project in Warrington.

The scheme provides advice and support to children and their families.

He said: "I have gained a real feeling of being of practical use, a sense of fulfilment at helping others."

John, 55, lives in Brookfield Avenue and used to be a mechanical engineer. He saw an advert for volunteers on a notice board in a church and now works two to three hours a week for the project.

"I had just retired from work and I thought I have got a bit of time to help. It's rewarding to do something like this on a voluntary basis.

"If you see the children frequently then you build up quite a relationship with them. It can be a bit of a problem when you get in a bereavement situation - but to be able to help them even for a short space of time is rewarding.

"The project has got good coverage in Warrington but I think I'm the only driver in Runcorn. They are desperate for more volunteers."

John added: "If someone is thinking about becoming a volunteer I would advise them to just ask about it; don't worry about becoming too committed.

"Whether it's office work, ironing, driving or anything else, there will be a task that will help the children who need it most."

For more details on volunteering with the Butterfly Project, call them on 01925 655863.