A selfless scout leader is our final contestant in the search for Richmond’s Local Hero.

Nigel Waine volunteers as a scout leader for 7th Hampton Scouts and Hampton Explorers and was nominated by a grateful parent for his work in enriching the lives of youngsters in the borough.

His dedication to the scouting movement in Hampton has seen membership grow from 10 to 80 in the past 10 years he has been leader of the pack and has seen him shortlisted in the Richmond and Twickenham Times’ search for a community hero.

Mr Waine, 47, of Rumsely Close, Hampton, said: “I’m quite pleased really. A nomination is particularly good from a parent,as it's nice to know you're doing good.

“Being a scout leader, you have to turn yourself to a lot of things. Volunteers are hard to come by.

“I earn a nice round figure of £0, but volunteers are operating on good will.”

Mr Waine gives up three evenings every week to run the scout group and the explorers, as well as taking youngsters away on monthly camping trips all year round.

However, he is lucky enough to have an understanding family who not only do not mind Mr Waine giving up his nights at home but also get involved in helping out. His wife Sarah is leader of the cubs, while his son James is a helper for the explorers and his daughter Claire helps out on the camps.

He was nominated by Cathy Trevelyn, from Hampton, whose sons attend the scout group.

She said: “The time and dedication that Nigel gives to the scouting movement gives such enrichment to so many young people in the community.”

Mr Waine is the final nominee in a shortlist of four community-caring residents who are in the running to be crowned Richmond’s Local Hero 2010.

The winner will receive a cash donation for the local charity of their choice and will be invited to appear on stage during Richmond Theatre’s production of the pantomime Sleeping Beauty in the new year.

We will tell you how to vote on this website and in the Richmond and Twickenham Times tomorrow.