NICHOLAS Green has proved a popular asset during his short stint at Ilkley's Booths Supermarket.

Mr Green, 24, suffers from spina bifida and hydrocephalus, but that has not stopped him meeting a tough challenge head-on.

His mother, Susan Green, is very proud of her son. It is thought that Nicholas is the first disabled youngster to tackle a scheme run by the Bradford branch of The Prince's Trust Volunteers.

His two weeks at Booths, particularly in the fruit and vegetable section, has delighted store manager Atholl Robertson.

He said: "Nicholas has done very well during the time he has been here. He certainly seems to be very popular with the customers."

"It is good for the customers, good for Nicholas and good for the community," he said.

Nicholas should emerge from the three-month project with an NVQ qualification, but his mother believes his broad range of experiences gained will be just as important.

"I have to say he has surprised me. He enjoyed a week's residential course where he took part in canoeing for example," she said.

Being part of the Prince's Trust for Volunteers had been a marvellous experience for Nicholas, as well as the able bodied participants, believes Mrs Green.

Further challenges lie ahead for Nicholas, of Burley Woodhead. He must take part in a fundraising campaign to raise money for underprivileged children to enjoy a holiday.

Gazette readers may recognise Nicholas as he is a popular volunteer at the town's Oxfam store.

Nicholas himself agreed his Booths experience had been an enjoyable one.

He is pictured left with fruit and vegetable manager Geoff Duncan at the rear.

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