A WAR veteran who has raised more than £5,000 for local NHS workers with his bugle has been nominated for a Proud of Barnsley award.

Paul Goose, from Cudworth, has been live streaming himself playing the instrument since the lockdown was enforced back in March and has boosted the morale of his neighbours.

The 53-year-old plays from his back garden every night at 8pm, and twice on a Thursday at 8pm and 8.30pm, to honour victims of coronavirus and frontline workers.

After receiving a huge amount of public support, Paul started his own fundraiser for the intensive care department at Barnsley Hospital, where he raised £3,000 in just four days.

“I’m still streaming my performances live on Facebook and the comments have been fantastic,” Paul said.

“It’s got to the point where people are sat outside their houses on my street waiting for me to play.

“I never thought I should fundraise as it was only me playing my bugle in my garden, until others encouraged me to start and collect donations.

“I served in the First Battalion in the Light Infantry for ten years and continued to play the bugle throughout that time so it was only natural to get it out again for my local community.”

Paul ends his live streams by encouraging his listeners to socially distance and stay safe.

“During the streams I like to give recognition to NHS staff, careworkers, funeral directors, emergency services and I try my best to mention all of the key workers,” he said.

“I started this to send my thoughts to those who have coronavirus and their families, and I will continue to do my best to keep spirits up.”

Paul’s fundraising efforts during the coronavirus lockdown has led to a nomination for Community Hero at this year’s Proud of Barnsley awards.

“It’s overwhelming to be put forward for a nomination like this,” Paul added.

“I think it’s absolutely brilliant, but I’m not doing it for the recognition, I’m doing it for the community more than anything.

“It’s been a team effort with everyone around Barnsley, and I’m just glad that people enjoy my bugle and have got behind me.”