A dentist received a national award for “going above and beyond” for people in Hendon.

Dr Brian Doherty won a Halifax Giving Extra award after being nominated by one of his patients.

Despite being a busy doctor, dentist and father-of-four, Dr Doherty also finds time to be a chairman of governors at St Joseph’s RC Junior school, where he teaches children about dental and general health issues.

Dr Doherty is also an active member of his local church, Our Lady of Dolours, and has helped raised money for the Passage – a charity which helps the homeless in London.

One of his patients said he can rely on Dr Doherty “for anything”, calling him a “reliable person who goes above and beyond his duty”.

Dr Doherty said: “I am very surprised. I didn’t expect to win an award but it’s lovely to receive.”

Awards ambassador, television and Heart FM presenter Jenni Falconer said: “Dr Doherty truly deserves this recognition for all he has done to help others, improve community life and has made a real difference to the people living in Hendon.”