ONE of the Welsh Ambulance Service’s longest serving volunteers has been shortlisted in a national competition.

From hundreds of entries in this year’s competition, 82- year-old Gerald Guard, of Undy, is in the top 10 for the Mega Bloke 2012 crown.

Mega Bloks who run the national Mega Bloke competition has been on the hunt since June to find a top bloke.

The great grandfather from Magor was nominated by his granddaughter, Esther James.

Ms James nominated him because not only has he played an important part within his community but also found time to be a wonderful great grandfather to her children.

This is despite Gerald and his wife Enid’s lives being tinged with sadness, after their daughter, Esther’s mother Janice Chambers, died aged just 44, six weeks after being diagnosed with leukaemia.

“I can’t thank them enough for what they have done for me,” said Ms James.

Retiring early after 40 years with British Rail through ill health, Mr Guard decided to become a volunteer for the Welsh Ambulance Service.

He spent 20 years transporting people to hospital before he retired in 2009 at 80 .

He does however still continue to volunteer by visiting long-term prisoners.

Ms James added: “Gerald has done so much for other people throughout his life and he deserves recognition. He still finds time to look after his great grandchildren.”

Mr Guard and family are now counting on the support of the Gwent public for him to be crowned the winner.

To vote, visit megabloke.

co.uk by October 1.