The founder of a Harrow charity has been recognised with a national award.

Kanti Nagda, who founded the Sangat Centre in Harrow Wealdstone, was awarded a National Political and Public Life Award at the House of Commons last week.

Mr Nagda, who came to the UK as a Ugandan refugee in 1972, was given the award for achievement in community service.

When he first arrived in the UK he set up the first Asian drop-in service in the country before establishing a hostel for elderly Asians and a vegetarian meals-on-wheels service.

He also ran Harrow Gujarati School for ten years as well as setting up the Sangat Centre in 1982.

The Sancroft Road charity acts as an advice centre for Harrow’s Asian population and has helped thousands of people with housing, welfare benefits, disability benefits and immigration.

Mr Nagda has held senior positions and chaired many organisations including being president of the National Congress of Gujarati organisations, secretary general of the Confederation of Indian organisations, president of Greenford Lions Club, and chair of North West London Community Foundation.

He is currently chairman of Harrow Refugee Forum and secretary of Greenford Lions Club.