An “outstanding” volunteer who has been at the forefront of anti-arson patrols in St Albans has won an award for his dedication.

Huw Jones, of St Albans, won district volunteer of the year for St Albans and Dacorum at the recent Herts county council’s community protection volunteer awards.

A spokesman for the event, held to celebrate the achievements of the Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service (HFRS) and Trading Standards volunteers, said colleagues had described Huw as, “extremely professional with a fantastic can-do attitude”.

He said that Huw, who patrols in a 4x4, contributed above and beyond his expected hours and was always looking to help in any way possible.

As a result of Huw’s efforts in preventing arson while on patrol in St Albans, deliberate fires in the area have fallen in the past year.

He has reported potential arson hotspots – fly-tipping sites such as sports fields, behind shops and industrial estates, resulting in the quick removal of rubbish.

Huw and other volunteers were presented with awards by Chief Fire Officer Roy Wilsher, who said their commitment helped protect Herts residents from dangers such as fire, counterfeit goods and rogue traders.

There are now over 100 HRFS and Trading Standards volunteers in the county, who gave around 12,500 hours of their time last year.