John Holt is the pick of the bunch at Portland Island Computer Klub

Fitting in a commitment to a computer club when you have a demanding job is no mean feat, and one that has persuaded John Holt's fellow members to nominate him as the Home Computing Hero of 2011.

I want to nominate our technical manager for the award. Portland Island Computer Klub (Pick) has been running for more than 15 years and John was a founder member," says club secretary Marc Grange.

"During that time he has been the kingpin of the club, passing on his technical experience and advice by helping and assisting many members. In addition to his devotion to assisting Pick members he also has a very demanding technical full-time job at the Thomas Hardy School in Dorchester. Without his dedication, expertise and advice our club would have disbanded years ago." A short video by Pick members can be viewed below.

John is one of several people who have made a real difference to the people of Portland Island. The volunteer organising committee has obtained some modest funding to buy equipment that helps local people grow their computing confidence.

"Over the past few years we have been fortunate in receiving two lottery grants, which enabled us to purchase a digital projector, and computers, in addition to many other computer peripherals, which has added to the enjoyment and benefit of the club," says Marc.

"In addition we have had small grants from Weymouth & Portland Borough Council. All these donations have assisted us in being able to keep our computer systems up-dated, as technology and operating systems are revamped. Many Pick members are Computeractive readers too. Our history of Pick illustrates the club's activities.

"Things advance quickly in the world of computer technology. But we try to keep members up to date, because computing covers such a wide variety of subjects. While it can be difficult to keep pace with the upgrades, we will strive to keep members informed of the latest technology as it is developed."