A BIG-HEARTED Warminster man will be receive a national honour to thank him for his efforts in raising more than £1.5m to help transform the lives of children affected by the Chernobyl nuclear disaster.

Adrian Walker, of Grange Lane, will collect his British Citizen Award, which recognises exceptional individuals who work tirelessly and selflessly to make a positive impact on society, at the Palace of Westminster next month for his services to volunteering and charitable giving.

The 64-year-old formed the charity Chernobyl Children in Need in 1999 after realising that children in Belarus were suffering from the effects of the world’s worst nuclear disaster, which happened at Chernobyl in 1986, some 30 miles away.

The soil was contaminated and because families in the area mostly grow their own food, their health was poor and so was the standard of living.

Upon making this discovery, Mr Walker spent many months getting support and helpers and from then on the charity installed toilet facilities, kitchens, providing beds, equipment and much more at schools and hospitals.

Over the last 18 years since then the charity has raised more than £1.5m for the cause.

"I was totally surprised to be told about the award, I had no idea and I am very touched. The award is just as much for the charity and the other trustees as it is for me, they are very dedicated band of people," said Mr Walker, who has four children and six grandchildren.

"I was actually told a few weeks ago but I was not allowed to say anything until this week. I had to keep it hush hush but it is a rare thing to receive an award so I was not going to break the rules.

"Initially when I got the phone call I thought it was a big joke. I had never heard of the award so I thought someone was pulling my leg. It should be a good day out but I am a little apprehensive.

"When I started the charity we were helping children who now have children of their own and there’s still a need for more to be done to help the next generation.

"I am proud of what we have accomplished over the years. We have eight trustees and they do a great job. I think we have a bright future ahead."

Mr Walker, who stepped down as chairman a couple of years ago to become a trustee due to health issues, is one of 30 medallists who will be honoured at a prestigious ceremony on July 6 and each of them will receive their medal which will be inscribed with the words, 'For the Good of the Country'.

He was nominated for a BCA by friend and charity trustee, Mary Harrington, who said: "Adrian’s commitment to the charity is 100 per cent and his willingness to go above and beyond to help the families in Ozarichi and the surrounding area is inspiring. His enthusiasm is infectious and I cannot sing his praises enough."