A DEDICATED volunteer who gives up three nights a week to help run an athletics club was given an 80th birthday surprise on Wednesday.

Tom Cochrane, who is originally from Scotland, started working with Bournemouth Athletic Club 34 years ago shortly after moving down to the area for his work.

For three days a week ever since he has helped run the club’s children’s sessions becoming a valuable member of the entirely voluntary coaching team.

At Wednesday’s session his close friends and family joined more than 100 youngsters in wishing him a happy birthday and thanking him for his “invaluable” efforts.

He has been involved in athletics for 65 years since he represented Scotland in cross country competitions.

Speaking on Wednesday evening, he said: “It has been truly brilliant working with all these people over the last 34 years.

“It’s not just about coaching these youngsters in athletics, it’s about coaching them in life.

“I’ve loved every minute I’ve spent here at this wonderful club.”

Bournemouth Athletic Club has more than 100 children attend its sessions and has a waiting list of more than 120 youngsters hoping to join.

Tom had scaled back his involvement with the club after suffering an illness in his 60s but was soon back helping out three days a week.

He said that he plans to take another step back from the club in October.