A DEDICATED Worcester YMCA resident has spoken of his new-found confidence after winning the regional Millennium Volunteer of the Year Award.

Joe Insull claimed the title for the West Midlands and was presented with the award by Children and Families Minister Maria Eagles at a ceremony in London on Thursday.

The scheme rewards volunteers who have shown exceptional levels of dedication, achievement and personal development.

The 21-year-old was given the title for his outstanding work as a Foyer Representative, supporting other residents at the St John's YMCA, and advising the National YMCA Board about amenities and facilities.

"I have now got so much more confidence thanks to Millennium Volunteer," he said. "I have enjoyed it so much that I am still volunteering and my reputation has helped me meet new people and make new friends."

Mr Insull now hopes to set up a Worcester project to support young people who harm themselves.

Ms Eagle said that he showed 'remarkable dedication' not just to their communities, but to their own personal development.

"I would like to congratulate Joe for an outstanding achievement," she said. "Millennium Volunteers is about making a difference - and Joe certainly has. He thoroughly deserves this recognition.

"Everyone benefits from volunteering and I'm proud of the contribution that Millennium Volunteers has made."

Prime Minister Tony Blair launched the Millennium Volunteers project in 1999 and, since then, more than 192,000 young people have taken part in the scheme.

Almost 90,000 have achieved the 100-hour award and 63,000 have achieved their award of excellence by completing 200 hours of volunteering.