A BARRY man has been crowned ‘Best Newcomer’ in the veterinary charity PDSA’s annual awards – beating more than 5,000 volunteers to win the title.

Peter Mayne, 49, joined the Holton Road store as a volunteer when it was set up in April last year.

And thanks to his ‘fantastic’ contribution to the charity, not only has he gone on to win the award, but he has also bagged himself a paid job!

"I’m so pleased and very surprised to have won this award," said Peter, who was nominated by colleagues.

"I love volunteering for PDSA as I get to support a worthwhile cause and make a difference, while meeting new people - both volunteers and customers."

His new paid role is as a stock checker.

"I have been doing the job for a month now and am really enjoying it," he said.

Peter, who fractured his back and elbow falling off a ladder while working on Cardiff Docks in 1999, had struggled to get a paid job before he started volunteering.

"I would recommend it if you have a spare couple of hours," he said.

"I would say to anyone, go for it and volunteer, you will never look back!"

The grandfather-of-three, who dressed as Scooby Doo on a hot day last April to help launch the shop, impressed the judges with his enthusiasm and commitment, having also completed a range of DIY tasks.

"I helped construct a changing room at the back of the store and a sorting table in the back room," he said. Karen Hailes, director of corporate and human resources for PDSA, presented Peter with a trophy, certificate and gift vouchers.

"Volunteers are the lifeblood of the PDSA and do an amazing job," she said.

"They save us £11.2 million a year in terms of costs.

"Peter’s nomination came in light of his fantastic contribution. He has used his DIY skills, and when he is not building things, he is out delivering gift sacks, advising people how to add Gift Aid to their purchases, and putting up posters encouraging people to volunteer.

"He’s been a personal shopper and children’s entertainer, and has built up links with the local PetAid hospital, dropping off pet food that has been donated at the store."

She added: "Peter’s dedication to PDSA is phenomenal.

"He thoroughly deserves his award!"

PDSA provides free veterinary treatment to the sick and injured pets of people in need.

For details visit www.pdsa.org.uk