ONE of Newport’s most recognisable faces is among several community figures who have been nominated for the Argus’ ‘Pride in Gwent Awards’.

Ron Jones, who is set to celebrate his 100th birthday next year, was the UK’s longest-serving poppy seller before retiring this year after more than 40 years of fundraising. He was a common fixture at the Tesco branch in Maesglas, where he tirelessly collected donations for the Royal British Legion.

His service to charity followed his military service overseas during the Second World War with the 1st Battalion of the Welsh Regiment in North Africa, before being captured by Axis forces and sent to Auschwitz.

According to Mr Jones, he only decided to start telling others about his war stories when he was 80-years-old.

Upon hearing that he had been nominated for the ‘Local Hero Award’, Mr Jones said: “It’s very nice to hear, I’m always looking to give back to the community.

“I enjoy giving talks to schools about the war and I’m booked to do talks in January and April, when I’ll be 100.

“I want to carry on as long as I am able, I still feel physically fit.”

In November, the Argus reported appeals by people, including TV presenter Susanna Reid, for Mr Jones to receive a knighthood for his voluntary work.

Since the launch of the Pride in Gwent Awards, Mr Jones has received several votes in favour of him winning the ‘Local Hero Award’.

In his written submission, Vernon Powell, of Church Crescent, Bassaleg, said: “He is an exceptional man for what he has done for the British Legion over the years, plus giving talks in schools in the area.

“Having known Ron for a long time, I think he deserves some reward.”

David Morrissey, of Tenby Close, Newport added: “He is a friendly, cheerful gentleman who survived Auschwitz and at the age of 99 is still selling poppies for the benefit of servicemen and women in these troubled times.”

There is still time for readers to submit their nominations for the awards, which contain the following categories:

l 999 hero Award

l Charity Champion Award

l Life Saver Award

l Special Recognition Award

l Community Hero Award

l Courage Award Award

l Achiever Award

l Volunteer Award

l Carer Award

l Local Hero Award

l Environment Award

l Lifetime Achievement Award

If you think you know someone who fits the bill for any of the above awards just fill in the form at tinyurl.com/zl8se95.

The closing date for nominations is January 27, 2017, with a judging panel picking winners in February followed by a ceremony in Marchat the Coldra Court Hotel by Celtic Manor.