An IT professional who racks up an incredible 25 to 30 hours volunteering per week is in line for a prestigious technology award.

Simon Cook devotes a large chunk of his free time to helping older people in sheltered accommodation across Waltham Forest improve their online skills.

Having started in 2012 in a small room with just three people, the 41-year-old is now inundated with requests from those who want to learn more about computers and the internet.

His work means he has been shortlisted for “Tech Volunteer of the Year” at the annual Tech4Good Awards, which are held at the BT Centre in central London on July 11.

He said: “I’m quite humbled to be honest, I’m not used to being recognised for my efforts and it’s just nice to be able to make a bit of a difference.

“Just to be on the shortlist is an achievement in my eyes and, if I were to be voted as the winner, that would be a bonus.”

Simon, who lives in Hertfordshire, says he sees technology as a vital part of everyday life and he enjoys the concept of providing people with something they otherwise might not have access to.

One of his proudest moments was helping a 96-year-old man compose an email to his friend and had to bring him to within an inch of the screen so he could see what he was typing.

Another case saw him hook a 91-year-old up with a smartphone, which he now uses to Facetime his friends and family and keep up to date with his charity work.

Simon began volunteering as a “digital champion” at Centra, which is part of the Clarion Housing Group, shortly after the conclusion of the London Olympics.

Neil Willington, volunteer services Manager at Centra, said: “Simon joined us as a volunteer shortly after London 2012 and his Olympic-size commitment continues to be an inspiration.

“He truly deserves the title digital champion.”

The winners of the Tech4Good awards will be determined by an online public vote, which is open until July 7.

To vote for Simon, visit: tech4goodawards.com/finalist/simon-cook.