IT was over half a century ago when Jim Parkes first took over a Birmingham youth club – and since then he hasn’t looked back.

He founded the Twenty Two Club in Great Barr in 1960, which later became a mobile youth club based in a renovated ambulance.

And he has spent more than 40 years tirelessly working to raise funds for youth organisations – so far clocking up an amazing £6.5million.

And, despite being 76, he still gives talks and organises events to raise money for charity.

Amongst his charity stunts were several world record-breaking attempts – including a chain of tea parties held around the country, which was launched by the late television star Sir Jimmy Savile.

It is his tireless work helping youngsters and offering a safe haven for them to banish their boredom that has won him the accolade as one of the Birmingham Mail’s Local Heroes.

And it’s not just Brummie youngsters who have been on the receiving end of Jim’s kindness and dedication.