GRANDAD Terry Larkman, who helps out in all sorts of ways in a York primary school, is today's Star of the Week.

Terry, 70, of Stockton Lane, York, has been nominated by Susan Lightfoot for the contribution he makes at St Aelred's RC Primary School in Tang Hall, York, and with St Aelred's Players.

He first got involved with the school in 1992 when his grandson Jason Coultas, who now lives in Bridlington, started at the nursery there.

He had just retired after a long career with British Rail and then the National Freight Corporation and volunteered to help children read in one class.

Today he helps out in five classes and is clerk to the governors at the school.

Head teacher Dave Horton said: "He does things like listening to readers and takes out small groups to do drama with them. He comes into school almost every day and he is also reserve football team manager. He gets involved with the Christmas and Easter shows and helps with assemblies, helping with stage production and lighting.

"He's a tremendous help. He'd do anything for you, anything for anyone. Time is no object. He's genuine and a really generous man."

Susan said Terry had been a member of St Aelred's Players, who rehearse at the school, for 25 years.

"We have over 40 members, more than half of which are school children, mostly from St Aelred's School, but others from other local primary schools and All Saints' Secondary School.

"As a senior member Terry attends every rehearsal and meeting as well as ensuring the safety of our children coming in and out of rehearsals. If a parent has a problem with ferrying a child to or from a rehearsal, Terry offers to help out."

She said he played a large part in production and had written and performed in shows too.

"We dread to think how we would manage without all his help and advice."

- Terry receives a £10 Borders electronic gift certificate. We need more nominations for Stars of the Week - please contact Janet Hewison on 01904 567133.

Updated: 09:04 Wednesday, May 22, 2002