Helping hand almost full-time

Alexandra man John Devine's dedication to volunteering is recognised as he stands with wife Glenda after being named Runner Up Volunteer of The Year at the Ministry of Health Volunteer Awards in Christchurch recently.

Mr Devine dedicates almost full-time hours in Alexandra to Central Otago Living Options, an activity centre for people with intellectual and physical disabilities.

He mows lawns, maintains equipment, fixes what needs repaired and takes people where they need to go.

He and Mrs Devine began volunteering there in 2008. He said he helped out because of the good the centre did for the community.

"I thought if I can do the odd thing for them, that's sort of my way of helping.''