A children’s illustrator has been recognised for her tireless voluntary efforts after being nominated for a charitable prize.

Jodie Cox, 21, Lemsford Court, Borehamwood has been nominated for this year’s Affinity Water Young People of the Year (YOPEY) awards for all of her hard work.

As well as running her freelance business, she volunteers at the Borehamwood Swimming Club, the 1st Elstree and Borehamwood Scouts and the Borehamwood Library.

She helped to set up many event in All Saint Church, Shenley Road over the last year, including an exhibition of work by the 50 Plus Art Group, a writer’s show, a photography display and a performing arts show.

Jodie is now in with a chance of being winning the Herts Young People of the Year award, bagging £500 to be put towards her charitable efforts, although £100 can be kept as a reward for her hard work.

She said: “It would be nice to be recognised for what I do as I feel like I do a lot within the community, and it’s always nice to get someone to say ‘You did a good job’.

“Winning the money would be good for the various clubs and organisations I belong to which would help to train up further volunteers and the scouts are always in need of equipment.

“I have almost completed my leader training to be a leader of the Cub Scouts and Explorer Scouts and aim to improve my skills so I can ensure they have the best time they can.”

Despite being diagnosed with dyslexia while at Wrexham Glynd?r University she completed her illustration course and has always had a passion for reading.

She said: “From a young age I loved reading and every summer I would take part in the Summer Reading Challenge in the library.

“The Summer Reading Challenge has helped me with my confidence and it is nice to see children learning to love reading.

“I listen to the children talk about their books, I recommend books and I assist the library staff by putting away books and tidying the children’s library.”

Borehamwood Library customer service supervisor Sarah Batty said: “I have worked with Jodie for a couple of years and have found her to be full of enthusiasm, reliable, warm, welcoming and engages with the children well.”

As well as a senior YOPEY, a junior YOPEY will be announced and be in with a chance of winning £300 for their cause at an awards ceremony in Moor Park, Mansion in November.

To nominate someone aged 10 to 25 who has a connection to Hertfordshire visit yopey.org before July 31.