A STAR volunteer at Fourteen Locks Canal Centre has been recognised by Keep Wales Tidy for his work making sure the place is spick and span.

Darren Morgan, 33, works at the centre every Thursday on tasks ranging from looking after the shop to helping out visitors.

But his efforts over 20 weeks to pick up detritus left behind like crisp packets and drink cans have been invaluable to the centre, staff said.

Keep Wales Tidy were so impressed they took him on as a community champion.

Tom Maloney, who coordinates volunteers at the centre, said: “He’s doing a great job – we are finding him a godsend. It’s important for us that people see the place at its best and Darren is really fantastic in making sure the place is kept tip top. He’s just a pleasure to have around.”

Mr Morgan, from Queens Hill, said: “I’ve been coming for ages now and I really enjoy it. My family are interested in canals and mum and dad are proud of me.”

He said his father initially inspired his interest in canals, to the extent that they have canal boats at home. Travelling down from Brecon by canal was an amazing experience, he added.

Funding for Fourteen Locks to extend its programme for volunteers came from the Heritage Lottery Fund.

Visit www.fourteenlocks.co.uk