A long-serving volunteer at a hospice has been rewarded with a medal for his hard work.

Don Foster, from Wanstead, received the Order of Mercy at a special ceremony at The Mansion House, in the City of London, in recognition of his support for Haven House Children’s Hospice.

The volunteer has raised more than £400,000 for the charity by organising regular bucket collections at London Underground stations with fellow supporters.

Rt Hon Lord Lingfield, formerly Sir Robert Balchin, is the president of the League of Mercy Foundation.

He said: “Mr Foster has carried out extraordinary work for the welfare of others and is a marvellous example of someone who has given wonderful service to his community.

“We were delighted to be able, on the recommendation of the charity, to make this well-deserved award.”

Mike Palfreman, chief executive of the Woodford Green hospice, said: “The support and commitment that Don has shown to Haven House over the past 10 years and the funds that he has raised for local life-limited children has been nothing short of remarkable.

“On behalf of everyone at Haven House, we would like to congratulate Don on this much-deserved award.”