A CHARITY champion who has helped raise almost £40,000 for veterans has been recognised for his work.

Darren Jaye, from Stourport, has been crowned a community hero by printer cartridge specialist Cartridge World.

The 43-year-old was nominated by members of the public for his fund-raising as honorary Poppy Appeal organiser for Bromsgrove Royal British Legion.

Over the past three years, Mr Jaye, who served in the Army until 2004, has helped organise fund-raising events for the Poppy Appeal, raising £19,600 in 2011 and about £17,400 in 2012.

The forklift truck driver was presented with a special hamper by Justin Birch from the Bromsgrove Cartridge World store and raffled his prize to raise a further £35 for the RBL.

Mr Jaye, who served in the county regiment and the Military Provost Guard Service, said: “I feel somewhat embarrassed because it’s everybody else that’s put the effort in.

“It’s the people who stand on the street corners with a collection tin and tray of poppies on a cold and wet weekend, and the people giving that deserve to be recognised.

“People in Bromsgrove are so generous. I just can’t say thank you enough to those people for the effort and time they put in.”

Mr Birch said: “Hearing how much Darren dedicates to the Royal British Legion is really inspiring, so it was a pleasure to say thank you and give something back to someone who clearly dedicates their time to helping others.

“The fact that he’s donating his own reward to raise more money for the cause is an indication of his selfless effort.”