A jazz-singing mentor to schoolchildren and four-time Britain’s Got Talent contestant is this week’s Unsung Hero.

Jason Philps, 59, from north Kingston, has worked at Anstee Bridge for four years as a teaching assistant.

The programme helps year 11 pupils who have trouble engaging with education.

He said his job is different every day.

He said: "They come to our little building, which is very adult, nothing like a school, and they warm to it.

"They often tell us about their problems and we help them get through certain events, or we are able to point them in the direction of professionals who can help them."

And he said using his musical talents at work goes down well.

He said: "We do so many creative things and I suppose that is what is at my heart.

"I am quite prepared to do it so they can begin to see you do not need to be really strung up about things like singing.

"It is one of the most interesting jobs I have ever had."

Mr Philps also does behind-the-scenes work to secure speakers who tell the children about their experiences.

He said: “I track people down and encourage them to come in and spend some time with the teenagers.

“You don’t need qualifications to be a success.”

Anstee Bridge co-ordinator Katherine Greening said: “He is very good with people and obviously good with young people, especially the boys.

“He makes all my speakers feel welcome and breaks the ice. He has a jokey way that makes everyone smile.”

She said he had helped her deal with bereavement.

She said: “I did not mind coming into work because he lifts your spirits and he is a fantastic friend as well.”

Do you know an unsung hero? Call 020 8744 4273 or email newsdesk@ surreycomet.co.uk.