DOBBIES has named the Duloch Spiderman one of their local heroes this Christmas following a nationwide search for ‘Not Your Average People’.

The garden centre retailer, alongside its national charity partner, Teenage Cancer Trust, said a special thank-you to Dave Roper with a gift card to spend in Dobbies Dunfermline.

He was nominated by multiple friends for his strong sense of community spirit and his dedication in going above and beyond to make life for Dunfermline residents a little brighter in 2020.

Dave spent 2020 raising money for Calaiswood School, Duloch Primary, Edinburgh’s Royal Hospital for Sick Children and Glasgow’s Children’s Hospital by running through Dunfermline dressed as Spider Man. Dave’s antics raised thousands of pounds and saw him heralded as a ‘local superhero’ in the community, as residents made it a part of their daily exercise regime to try to spot ‘Spider Man’ on the streets of Dunfermline.

Other superheroes were also inspired by his initiative and joined in spreading cheer through the pandemic.

Dave said: “I am delighted to have been named a ‘Local Hero’ by Dobbies and Teenage Cancer Trust.

"I love living in Duloch and being part of our kind, generous community.

"I’m incredibly proud that my fun runs as Spider Man have made a difference to our local area.

"I don’t plan on hanging up my costume any time soon!”

Graeme Jenkins, CEO at Dobbies, said: “Christmas is a magical time of the year and it’s great to celebrate Dave, who has been spreading joy all year long.

"Together with Teenage Cancer Trust, it has been fantastic to hear about community heroes across the UK who have made a real difference, and we’re delighted to give back to them this Christmas.”