A dedicated fundraiser has been hailed as an inspiration to others for helping to raise thousands of pounds for a foodbank.
Monju Meah, from Elswick, Newcastle, helped to start the Toon Aid initiative to support the West End Foodbank and spearheaded a campaign to raise £50,000 by Christmas Day in 2017.
A similar campaign was run the following year, hitting around £72,000.
In addition, he has helped to organise several other fundraising activities and even developed the foodbank's online donation platform as well as volunteering for the NUFC Fans' Foodbank on match days.
Now the 32-year-old, who was born and bred in Newcastle's West End, has been nominated for a 'Champion Fundraiser' award in our Chronicle Champion Awards.
He said: "It's a great honour to be recognised, it's absolutely fantastic.
"But I've always considered this fundraising as a huge team effort. The aim was to bring everyone in the community together and encourage people to raise funds in the best way they can."
He said the West End Foodbank was a vital charity that helped scores of struggling families and wanted to get involved to support it.
"I was brought up in the West End and this charity is at the heart of the community," he added. "It makes such a difference to people's lives.
"Having food on the table is such a basic thing. If you haven't got that, how are you going to get on?
"I have met thousands of families who have been struggling over the years. It's just basic humanity to help."
Stuart Latimer, who nominated Monju, said: "He's a super guy, loved by all and an inspiration. He's deserving of greater recognition."
To enter the Chronicle Champions awards - please click here for an online entry form - otherwise contact Amy Taylor on 0191 201 6092 or email amy.taylor@reachplc.com and she will advise on an alternative entry.
Closing date for entries is Friday September 27 2019.
