Geoff honoured for millions of reasons

A Black Country businessman who has raised millions of pounds for charity is the latest Express & Star Local Hero.

Geoff Hill, aged 81, has been a dedicated fundraiser for more than 40 years helping countless good causes across the region.

Earlier this year he received the first Dudley Mayor's Award to be chosen by members of the public in an on-line vote. And he now has another certificate to add to the mantlepiece after being awarded the prestigious Express & Star award in honour of his achievements.

Mr Hill, of Lawnswood Road, Wordsley, said he was delighted and surprised to receive the award.

"It is always nice to be recognised though I don't do the work for that reason. The community has been very good to me over the years and I want to give something back.

"Residents in this borough have supported me in my business ventures for many years and I am very grateful.

"I enjoy my charity work enormously. I am not the kind of person who likes to sit back. I like to be working on something.

"It really is amazing to have received this award."

Mr Hill, who owns the Geoff Hill Electrical Superstore, in Amblecote, Stourbridge, stepped down from organising large-scale charity events last year.

But he continues to run his own Charitable Trust which raises for thousands for good causes every year.

Mr Hill , who received the MBE for his charity work in 2004, set up the trust in 1997 with 10 per cent of the annual profits from his business going into the fund.

Over the years he has staged annual open garden events at his home, pig roasts, big band evenings and raffles.

He also helped set up Stourbridge's Mary Stevens Hospice by raising funds and was a key player in setting up its weekly fundraising lottery and chain of charity shops.

Mr Hill first started fundraising 40 years ago when he helped to buy a minibus for the Brunswick House care home, in Cannock, where his daughter Louise lives.