WESTHAM Youth Forum leader Ryan Hope has received recog-nition for his voluntary efforts in the community.

The former Budmouth student has been acknowledged by the Nationwide Building Society and Heritage Lottery Fund's society awards as a local hero.' Ryan, 16, is one of four individuals from the South West who is a finalist in this year's Community and Heritage Awards following his success at the regional heats.

He accepted an award, £250-worth of vouchers and a £500 donation towards a charity or cause of his choice at the awards ceremony.

He said: "I am very surprised to receive this award because there are so many more people who deserve it rather than me."

The youngster has contributed to the community of Westham in Weymouth by putting time and energy into forging links between the area's younger and older populations.

Ryan, along with other youth leaders and the local council, recently embarked on a graffiti art project.

Former borough councillor Kate Wheller was responsible for his nomination.

She said: "As a councillor who was involved with the Westham area for a number of years, I was very struck by Ryan.

"He didn't just say why don't we do this or why don't we do that? He actually went out for himself with his peers.

"Ryan has a terrific attitude for one so young."

Ryan will meet the other finalists at the national finals to be held at the Tower of London on November 11.