Pamela Bilalova
BBC News, North East and Cumbria
Supplied
Jack Dillon volunteers at several organisations in Sunderland
A volunteer says he is “so proud” to be the star of a community organisation’s book encouraging children to grow at their own pace.
Jack Dillon, from Sunderland, who has Down’s syndrome, is the inspiration behind one of the characters in The Story of the Lazy Loaf.
The 27-year-old, who has been volunteering at The Bunker and Sunshine Co-operative in the city, said he was thrilled to be included in the story.
Author and founder of Raising Dough CIC Jo Gordon said Mr Dillon was a “legend” and a “larger than life character”.
“He just brings joy. He’s quite an emotional chap as well,” Ms Gordon said.
The community organisation supports people with disabilities into work.
Mr Dillon, who has been helping there for the past two years, said it meant a lot to be featured as the baker in the story.
“I love volunteering,” he said.
“It helps me a lot to see different people and help people.”
Sunderland BID
Jo Gordon, left, and book illustrator Hannah Graham, will be holding a charity storytelling event at Fulwell Windmill
Proceeds from the book will go towards local causes or be reinvested into the community.
A storytelling event will also take place at Fulwell Windmill on Thursday and all ticket sales will be donated to Grace House, which provides support to disabled children and their families.
Ms Gordon said she also hoped the book could be used by schools in the future.