WHEN Ray Asher agreed to become chairman of the Friends of Babington Hospital, he thought it would be for a few days only.

But, 18 years later, he remains in the position, having played a key role in raising approximately £150,000 for the Belper hospital.

The cash has been used to fund vital new medical equipment as well as home comforts for patients.

His fund-raising efforts have had a major impact on the hospital and the 72-year-old has now been nominated for a Derby Telegraph Community Champion Award.

Mr Asher, of Derby Road, Milford, was quick to say his team of 14 fund-raisers were the ones who deserved most credit.

"It's great to be nominated but I'm only a member of a team. Any award we get is a team award – I'm not special," he said.

Mr Asher initially had reservations about taking on the role of chairman in 1992.

The previous chairman, John Poune, had died of a heart attack and Mr Asher's wife, a member of the charity, persuaded him to fill in.

Mr Asher said: "I said I knew nothing about the role but would 'fire-fight' until someone else could be found.

"I'm still fire-fighting today!"

Mr Asher has overseen activities including sponsored walks, car boot sales and garden parties. He has also persuaded local businesses to make financial donations.

As well as buying new equipment, the cash has been used to build a £40,000 conservatory and provide patients with improvements including televisions.

Recent purchases include a £7,500 bath designed for stroke patients, who are hoisted into the tub. A relatives' waiting room has also been refurbished.

Friends of Babington Hospital member Dawn Litchfield nominated Mr Asher.

She said: "There are not many days of the week when you do not see him around."

The Derby Telegraph has teamed up with BBC Radio Derby, Derbyshire Building Society, Derby City Council and Derby County Football Club for the Community Champions awards.

On Sunday, May 16, the 14 winners will go to a ceremony at Pride Park Stadium.

Nomination forms can be found at www.thisisderby shire.co.uk/champions or www.bbc.co.uk/derby.

They are also in some copies of the Derby Telegraph or they can be collected from BBC Radio Derby, in St Helen's Street, or Derbyshire Building Society.

They should be sent to Caroline Jones, Community Champions, Derby Telegraph, Northcliffe House, Meadow Road, Derby DE1 2BH by Friday, April 2.