A BIG-HEARTED youngster has received a fundraiser of the year award.

Witham Hub boss Tina Townsend presented Freddie Brannan, aged nine, with the award at a special assembly for his work raising money for the centre.

The Templars Academy pupil has been raising money all year to help provide food for those in need during the winter.

Freddie was inspired to help after finding out on the news some people could be forced to choose between heating their homes or buying food.

Regularly giving £20 of his pocket money each month, he also asked Tina to set up a fundraiser which, along with donations of food, has raised more than £700 and is still rising.

Freddie’s fantastic efforts were also recognised in September by Morrisons, which gave him a community award after staff heard about his efforts.

Headteacher Victoria Gooding said: “We are incredibly proud of Freddie for his contribution to the community.

“He is a credit to the school. Not only has he made an impact on the well-being of so many families, but he has put the needs of others before himself and done this selflessly.

“His caring and philanthropic attitude make him a fantastic example to his peers and others in the local area.”

To donate, visit totalgiving.co.uk/mypage/FreddiesHeatANDEat.