A kind-hearted young Jewish boy has been awarded for his hours spent volunteering for his community.

Max Shinett, 13, of Newbury Park, was recognised for the 29 hours he spent working with the Jewish community who go to South West Essex and Settlement Reform Synagogue in Oaks Lane, Newbury Park.

He received the Yoni Jesner Award in a ceremony of more than 365 people in St Johns’ Wood Synagogue in London last month.

To be nominated for the award, Max had helped assisting with synagogue services and with the weekly religious school.

Max said “I have really enjoyed this experience and will definitely continue and increase my volunteering.

“In addition, next year I also hope to participate in The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme.”

Yoni Jesner was a student youth leader who was killed by a bomb in Tel Aviv, Israel, in September 2002.

Yoni’s brother Ari Jesner, and the Chief Rabbi, Jonathan Sacks, gave speeches and tributes to Yoni, who the award was in memory of.