A CATFORD couple who work with deaf and blind youngsters have been awarded for their work.

Flo and Simon Howard from Rushey Green have been crowned the Sense charity’s Volunteers of the Year.

The award was made by TV star Arlene Phillips at the charity’s annual awards given in recognition of exceptional achievements.

Mr Howard, 50, helps run a family support group for parents of children with Charge Syndrome, a rare genetic condition that causes deafblindness.

Along with Flo, 47, they are the first port of call for families needing advice and information on the condition – which also affects their 11-year-old daughter Jessica.

Mr Howard said: “It’s a real honour to receive this award. “We’ve been involved with Sense for about 11 years and we’ve met so many fantastic families and children.”