A volunteer has been honoured for helping to raise £420,000 for a children’s hospice.

Don Foster initiated a project in 2001 to set up collection points at London Underground stations and shopping areas in aid of Haven House in High Road, Woodford Green.

He was given an Order of Mercy award at a Mansion House ceremony.

The honour is awarded by the organisation League of Mercy, which was established in 1899 to recognise the work of community volunteers.

Mr Foster said: “The presentation ceremony was impressive and I was excited to accept the award as it brings good publicity to the charity.”

“I cannot think of a more worthwhile cause than Haven House, to support.”

“None of this could have been possible without my dedicated team of volunteers, and Violet Pace who has helped me almost every evening over the entire campaign.”

“Haven House Chief Executive, Mike Palfreman, said: ‘The support and commitment that Don has shown to Haven House over the past ten 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.”

Mr Foster received the award on July 28.