A WYRE Forest man has had his voluntary work helping people with diabetes recognised and is now looking forward to being a guest of the Queen.

Fred Holland, of Kidderminster, has been invited to a garden party at Buckingham Palace in recognition of his work for people in the community who suffer from the illness.

The 68-year-old, described by diabetes nurses as "one in a million", has been working with various organisations and charities for 35 years to raise awareness.

Mr Holland, whose daughter and wife have diabetes, explained how the invite came as a shock.

He said: "I was a bit reluctant at first because I just couldn't take it in that I had been invited. I am really looking forward to the day and I just hope that the weather is kind."

The invite is the latest in a line of honours for the retired carpet industry worker.

Mr Holland was in the capital last week, with his wife Shirley, as a guest of Wyre Forest MP, Dr Richard Taylor.

Dr Taylor presented Mr Holland with an award that recognised his contribution to the community at a special ceremony at the House of Commons.

Mr Holland expressed his gratitude to the MP for the hospitality that he showed to him during the day.

He said: "The day was absolutely lovely and the generosity shown by Dr Taylor was marvellous and I would like to thank him for that."

Dawn Edwards, a diabetes specialist nurse in Kidderminster, paid tribute to Wyre Forest's "diabetes champion".

She explained: "Without the support given to us by Fred, we would not have the facilities we have at present for providing patient care. We feel he is one in a million and do not know what we would do without him."

The volunteer, who was also nominated for the Queen's Award for Services in the Community, urged more people to come forward and help the cause.

He explained: "We need more volunteers because the number of people being diagnosed with diabetes in Wyre Forest is exploding. Looking back, I really can't believe I found the time to help so much when I was working."