An anti-drugs campaigner who has helped teach more than 300,000 children to live healthier lives has won the Community Builder Award 2009/2010 award.
David Brown, who has worked with children for 16 years, is to use his £3,000 prize to help more youngsters understand the damage done by drugs, alcohol and smoking.
David, 62, of Cropston, was awarded Leicestershire First's Community Builder Award for his voluntary work as founder and a trustee of Leicestershire Life Education Centres. The trust operates two mobile classrooms, staffed by trainers, which tour primary schools in Leicestershire. Every year, an average of 25,000 pupils aged four to 11 receive lessons.
David said: "We build self-esteem and the ability to make choices so children are less likely to drift into smoking, drinking alcohol and substance abuse.
"I now meet older teenagers who tell me they remember our messages.
"Hearing that first hand is the most rewarding aspect – knowing we have made a difference."
David chose his charity, Leicestershire Life Education Centres. He said: "I'm delighted to win the award – £3,000 will be a significant help for the charity to continue in its vital work."