Addingham'S super street sweeper David Lawrence has scooped a top prize in the Street Cleaner of the Year Award for Yorkshire and Humberside 1998.

Dave, 48, of Burns Hill, Addingham, has kept the village tidy for the past four-and-half years and was this week given a special commendation for his hard work.

Villagers nominated him in the Tidy Britain Group and Tetley's competition for the extra services he provides.

On top of his normal duties, Dave clears snow from people's driveways and does shopping for elderly residents.

"The award is a bit of a shock. I've been off work for three weeks because I've been in hospital and didn't know anything about it until this week," he said.

"I'm pleased people in the village nominated me, but as far as I'm concerned everything I do is just part of my job. It's a nice community in Addingham and we help each other out."

Street cleaner John Astin was also given a commendation for his hard work on the roads of Steeton and Eastburn.

Marian Harrison, Tidy Britain Group's north east regional director said both men deserved their awards.

"These awards are recognition for their dedication to the local community, they clearly work beyond the call of duty and are appreciated by all."

Both cleaners, who are employed by Bradford council's cleansing department, received £25, a certificate and 24 cans of Tetley bitter.

"I'm not a bitter drinker but the cans will come in handy for a barbecue I'm having in a few weeks," added Dave.

The Street Cleaner of the Year Award went to Ken Pearson, of Pateley Bridge.

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