A 62-year-old Penge man has been honoured for his outstanding contribution to the British Heart Foundation (BHF).

Richard Ruffell has been volunteering at the Croydon branch of the BHF for 22 years.

He has supported a wide range of fundraising events, including the London to Brighton bike ride, London runs, sponsored swims and local supermarket collections.

He said: "I was absolutely shocked to receive the award - it now sits in pride of place on my mantelpiece.

"Volunteering for the BHF makes me feel really worthwhile as I know I’m making a difference.

"I like meeting other volunteers as well as the atmosphere at the events and the people who take part. I think it all helps."

Mr Ruffell picked up the award at an annual event recognising the commitment and hard work of thousands of fundraisers and volunteers around the country who raise much needed funds to fight heart disease.

In 2013 the BHF's events series raised almost £10m, with around 90,000 people taking part in fundraising activities in the UK and overseas.