The caring chairman of Ashfield District Council, Coun Dale Grounds, became well known for a dressing as Spiderman and cheering up youngsters in Nottingham Children’s Hospital School, based at Queen’s Medical Centre (QMC).

In August he hosted a tour of the council’s offices and the new Kirkby Leisure Centre for one of the young patients he met at the school, Harley Dargue.

Dale also wanted to show his continued support for one of his chosen charities, Ducklings, the charity of the hospital school.

Harley, now 10, was born with kidney problems and spent his early years visiting the QMC, where he first met Dale dressed as Spiderman.

Fortunately, the Mansfield youngster’s father donated a kidney to his son and Harley’s health and life have improved so much that this summer he won three medals at the British Transplant Games, including gold in the 3k walk.

On the visit to the council offices in Kirkby to see behind the scenes, Harley rode in a refuge lorry, visited local police and got to wear a police uniform, and played table tennis, and in the soft play area, at the new leisure centre.

Dale said: “I remember first meeting Harley at the Queen’s Medical Centre eight years ago and he was joy to be around. Having met Harley many times, it’s great to see him in a better place with a thirst for life.

“It was my pleasure to have Harley as my stand-in deputy chairman for the day and for a fun time at the fantastic new leisure centre in Kirkby.

“I’d like to thank the family and Ducklings for allowing me the opportunity to support the community.”

Dale said he was proud of Harley’s achievements and intended to support him at the games next year.