A former Barnardo’s boy has rounded up a year of fundraising for the charity by presenting it with £1,300.

Mark Gill handed over the sum after raising money through events such as a quiz night, raffles and a dinner.

Mark, who has worked in Barnardo’s finance department for 18 years, supported the organisation during his year as chief ranger (chairman) of the Barkingside Foresters Friendly Society branch Industry of Cobden.

He said: “It proved to be a popular charity. It was a tremendous effort by all the Foresters, who supported me wholeheartedly during my year of office.

“I also received tremendous support from Helena Burley and Alicia Luther-Jones who work at Barnardo’s and would like to express my personal thanks to both ladies.”

Mark came into Barnardo’s when he was six months old and lived at the charity’s Woodford Bridge home for four months.

But he became seriously ill and was transferred to the Barnardo’s Barkingside Village, where he received specialist hospital care.

After spending three years recovering, Mark enjoyed the rest of his childhood in the cottages on the green.

He said: “I chose Barnardo’s as my charity because it was an opportunity for me to give something back.”