ALL too often the pages of the Evening News have to carry stories from the underbelly of our society - those which reflect the darker side of humanity.

Death, violence, theft and vandalism regularly feature in all newspapers.

But, today, we are fortunate in that we can report two uplifting stories which reflect a far more positive side of life.

The bright, young faces of Worcestershire's Millennium Volunteers grace today's Pages 12 and 13.

These teenagers - who spend a good deal of their time selflessly helping others - are an example to us all.

Given the enormous pressures faced by young people today, the community spirit shown by all the county's 150 Millennium Volunteers is admirable.

From animal welfare, to firefighting, to helping teach literacy, all of them take part in activities of which they should rightly be very proud.

The story of Eileen Alkin and her son Bobby on today's front page shows a different sort of community spirit, but one which is equally valid.

Mrs Alkin's fears at being stranded at London's Paddington station with her 57-year-old Down's syndrome son were, we are sure, very real.

The commitment to ensure her ultimate safe arrival at her intended destination shown by Thames Trains conductor Mr Mubarau goes way beyond the level of customer service expected.

His decision to accompany the pair to Slough - and the unknown couple who paid for Mrs Alkin's and Bobby's taxi home - show the sort of community spirit of which we can all be proud.