A DAUGHTER has described her father as her “hero and inspiration” in nominating him in this year’s Comet Community Awards.

Andrew Nation, of Deards End Lane in Knebworth, has been nominated in the Charity Champion of the Year category of the awards by his daughter, Charlotte Conner.

The awards aim to recognise those in the community who work hard to help others, including volunteers, parents and teachers.

Categories include Great and Green Award, Good Neighbour Award, Parent in a Million Award, Valiant Volunteer of the Year and Role Model of the Year.

Those shortlisted for each category will be invited to a special ceremony at Hitchin Town Hall on May 31.

Charlotte, of Cheviot Way in Stevenage, said: “Andrew is not only my father but also my hero and my inspiration.

“Since I was a child I have watched him raise funds for charity tirelessly.

“At present, he is training to swim the tidal section of the Thames in Teddington and continue swimming across to Calais in France. At 62 years of age, this is quite something!”

In 2005, Mr Nation swam for 12 days along the Thames, completing 147 miles.

He has completed the London to Brighton, London to Paris, and Brussels to Amsterdam cycle races several times.

He has also completed rallies including the Euro Auto Challenge - winning the race and still holding the world record - and the Arctic Auto Challenge.

Charlotte said: “I am so proud of my father for the commitment he has shown to the charities he supports, both in the money he has raised and the awareness he has brought to the charities.

“He truly believes that one man can make a difference, and I honestly can’t think of anyone who deserves to be recognised for their achievements more.”

This year’s Comet Community Awards are in association with Garden Square Shopping Centre in Letchworth GC, and are sponsored by North Hertfordshire College, North Hertfordshire Homes, Specsavers, VW of Letchworth, Pinehill Hospital, The Altro Group, Stevenage Community Trust, PayPoint and Morrison Utility Services.

A spokesman for Pinehill Hospital said: “There is another hospital! Use your private medical insurance or self fund.

“With ensuite facilities and excellent levels of cleanliness, with no hospital-acquired cases of MRSA and a customer satisfaction rating of 98 per cent, you can be assured of a standard of care that is second to none.

“All our facilities are regularly inspected and approved by the Care Quality Commission.

“Health screening, men’s health, cosmetic surgery, urology, orthopaedics, gynaecology, ear nose and throat, and so much more is available. Call 01462 427207.”

For more information about the Comet Community Awards, including a full list of categories, and to make a nomination, visit www.thecomet24.co.uk/communityawards