WHEN we asked our readers if they knew someone who really deserved the Millionaire Lifestyle, Christine Hanrahan knew just the man: her husband, John.

She nominated him for our Great Citizen Award, in conjunction with The Coast radio, for his tireless work in Ferndown: managing and fund-raising for the local Ju-Jitsu Club, co-ordinating Neighbourhood Watch, running community open and clean-up days, and being a member of the carnival committee.

“All of this has been done in his own time and, unknown to many people, he has also undergone eight operations on his heart,” she said.

Earlier this week, against stiff competition, John clinched the award but didn’t hear about the top prize -- a week on a luxury motor yacht, cruising the French Riviera – until yesterday morning.

“I can’t believe it,” he said. “Christine only put me in for the award and to be honest that was amazing enough. But when we found out there was a prize involved it was so exciting, like Christmas Day.”

The trip involves a car journey to Southampton Airport where he and Christine will fly to Nice. “We’ll meet the captain and then go to Antibes where we’ll join the yacht. Then it’s just a week of cruising the coast of France, popping into casinos, having a coffee, as you do!”

Now the shock of the prize has worn off, John and Christine are getting ready for their special week in earnest. “I’ve bought my James Bond-style white jacket and I expect Christine will want a whole new wardrobe!” he said.

However, he added: “Although the award and the prize are so wonderful the best thing about volunteering is what you get out of it – far more than you put in. I’d urge everyone to volunteer, if they can.”

Runner-up was Norma Penny of Boscombe, who was nominated by her daughter for her years of foster care to troubled youngsters and her dedicated teaching of adults with learning difficulties.

Norma and her husband, David, will be enjoying a two-night cruise to the Belgian town of Bruges, on the liner Arcadia.

“I’ve never been to Belgium or on a ship like that so it will definitely be something different,” she said.

“I was amazed to be nominated for the award and even more surprised to win. I think that things come your way in life and you decide to do something about them. You can’t turn your back on people who need your help.”