A MAN behind the scenes of a youth group which promotes young writers and performers has been praised for keeping them on the road.
John Durston was nominated by Grace Quansah, founder and director of WAPPY (Writing, Acting and Publishing Project for Youngsters), who said: “WAPPY is blessed to have a team of dedicated volunteers but John, who is affiliated with our umbrella organisation, Positive Awareness, is an exemplary and outstanding volunteer.
“He has provided hands-on sessional and behind the scenes administration and booking – keeping support at the outset of WAPPY’s evolution in 2008, even though he worked full-time.
“He is not only WAPPY’s safeguarding officer, but has worked jointly with me as the project director to recruit, interview, appoint and induct the project’s volunteers over the years.
“He has attended every showcase and community event and has run stalls to promote WAPPY’s publication, The Soul of a Child.
“John recently helped to do door-to-door leafleting and flyer distribution in Brent and Ealing libraries to promote a new WAPPY programme.
“A loving father and doting grandfather, John has a natural rapport with all our WAPPY members, and has personally offered hands-on support in some workshops including the signage-making session in 2010 for Acton Carnival.
“He also refuses to accept any expenses for travel, food or any kind of assistance and will always donate refreshments or amenities such as a chess set and table tennis set to the project.”
