A DEDICATED volunteer at Wraxall’s Tyntesfield estate has been nominated for an award in recognition of his efforts.

John Weeks has been selected as a finalist in the Love Places category of the Octavia Hill Awards, which are named after one of the founders of the National Trust.

In 2002, shortly after the trust began to care for the estate, John founded a team of 60 volunteers to interact with visitors to the grounds.

He encouraged staff and volunteers to present the fascinating place in its entirety, championing the relationship between the house, gardens and the wider estate.

This was supported by research into 160 years of social and horticultural history carried out by the team.

A fellow team leader said: “John relates easily to people, especially to new recruits, communicating clearly and engendering their enthusiasm.

“He encouraged an individual response to reflect each volunteer’s background and interests.

“Under John’s guidance our role has adapted to many developments over the past decade, and his receptiveness to new ideas has enabled the team’s work to expand and flourish.”

North Somerset people are now being encouraged to support John, who lives in Clevedon, by voting for him in an online poll at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/octaviaawards

Voting closes on Sunday.