A Kingston volunteer who began his community contribution by stuffing envelopes has now become the database controller of a whole network of volunteers.

Former furniture maker Peter Ungaretti, 58, of Willingham Way, was at a loss with what to do with his life when he became unable to work because of mental illness – that is until he came across Go Kingston Volunteering.

Having worked through all the ranks of administration, Mr Ungaretti goes in once a week without fail to sort through hundreds of volunteering applications and he has been doing this for nearly 10 years.

He said: “I did not know what to do at the start – I was taught how to use a computer. I am very thankful.

“There are hundreds of emails from volunteers at the moment because of the Olympics.

“I have to find roles for them all and reply back to them. It gives me something to do. It takes my mind off things and gives me something else to think about.”

Go Kingston Volunteering centre manager Maria Jarvis, who recruited Mr Ungaretti, said: “We have a seven day turnover guarantee and we are getting more than 100 applications every week ahead of the Olympics.

“If Peter was not here we would not be able to meet that demand so without him we would not be able to deliver our key service.

“I am really proud to see his progress. He is really reliable and picks things up very quickly.”

Mr Ungaretti who enjoys spending time with his girlfriend, caring for his 85-year-old mother and long walks, said volunteering had given him a sense of self esteem. On being called an unsung hero the admin volunteer said: “I am a bit lost for words.”

l To nominate an unsung hero call 020 8744 4244 or email newsdesk@surreycomet.co.uk.