A former rough sleeper received a standing ovation as his work helping Croydon's homeless was recognised in an annual greenkeepers awards show.

Jack Percival, 24, led over 30 volunteers providing supplies and support to the borough's rough sleepers near East Croydon station in a special event on Christmas Eve.

A greenkeeper at Chipstead Golf Club in Surrey, he was among the prize winners at the British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA) awards, claiming the outstanding contribution of the year.

The 24-year-old, who was himself homeless for six months when he was 17, put out an appeal on social media for donations, with a huge number from within the golf industry and the wider world responding.

Jack said: “This is unbelievable, I didn’t think I could cry in front of hundreds of people, it was just brilliant.

"I didn’t do this for an award, I was homeless myself when I was 17 and I did six months on the street.

"I turned my life around, met my partner, and this is just the start for me.

"We did a big feed at Christmas and there was one guy who cried because he got a haircut. I saw a guy dance because he got new shoes and you can’t put a price on that.”

The work was a huge success, but is just one example of Jack’s incredible efforts to support the homeless and those less fortunate.

Mr Percival, who lives in New Addington with his partner and four-year-old son, spent six months on the streets of Croydon when he was 17 after he fell out with his parents.

Having now found employment as a golf course greenkeeper and a home of his own, he wants to help other people escape the cycle of homelessness.

He also volunteers weekly with Croydon Nightwatch, which is where a member of staff encouraged him to seek support for the aid he provides at Christmas.

BIGGA Chief Executive Officer Jim Croxton said: “When I heard Jack’s story I was absolutely blown away. Having heard what he went through during those six months when he lived on the street and then seeing how he has worked tirelessly in the years since to not only turn his life around but also provide opportunities for others less fortunate, is quite inspirational.

“I’m delighted that we have been able to recognise Jack’s achievements in this small way. He is an incredible young man and I’m proud to call him a member of the association.”

“Congratulations also to Amanda Dorans and Carl Flavell, whose incredible stories made them extremely worthy finalists for this award.”