Banburyshire advice expert who works for those needing help with benefits has become a Fellow in his legal field

Andrew Willis BCAv has been made a Fellow Paralegal in recognition of his legal help and advice service

Mr Willis received his accolade following a meeting of the board of the National Association of Licensed Paralegals (NALP) who recognised his legal expertise after years of helping the general public.

He has been giving free legal advice, helping countless people to navigate the maze of welfare and other benefits, for nearly 15 years for a number of charities, including Banbury Benefit Advice Project, Age UK Oxfordshire, MS Society, Banbury and more recently Banburyshire Advice Centre.

Residents of Banbury and the surrounding area have benefited from his vast experience and his dedication to charity work. Mr Willis's efforts in the community have resulted in him being awarded a British Citizen Award and a Honorary Masters Degree from the Open University.

His huge contribution is highly regarded and he has been successful in helping the elderly, disabled and poor access quality information and advice concerning the Welfare System - and its complicated appeals system. He is the founder of the Banburyshire Advice Centre.

Mr Willis said: “I am greatly honoured that my work in the legal sphere has been recognised by my peers and demonstrates the dedication I have given to help others in need in Banbury and the wider community.

"Thank you NALP for the honour and to the organisations and individuals who provided evidence to the NALP board concerning my legal work.”

Mr Willis's work has involved many cases and helped thousands of people over the last 15 years, often resulting in positive results for the people in Oxfordshire, Northants and south Warwickshire.

On December 22, he heard from the Prime Minister's office that he had been chosen as that day's PM's Points of Light volunteer. See this feature here. The daily Points of Light award recognises outstanding individual volunteers - people who are making a change in their community.

Mr Willis has raised thousands of pounds for charities. Among other achievements it is estimated he has raised over £20,000 for the Workers' Educational Association and at least £60,000 for the Banburyshire Citizen Project.

Nationally he has helped hundreds of charities raise funds through information in his book, Funding Made Easily, which he has given free of charge to charities across the UK.