‘Unsung heroes’ of Exeter awarded at city-centre ceremony
Outdoor council workers were acknowledged at an awards ceremony this week for their dedication to keeping Exeter well-maintained and rubbish free.
The “unsung heroes” of Exeter have had their efforts recognised at an awards ceremony in the city this week.
78 outdoor council workers were acknowledged at the 45th Tidy Exeter Group Ambassador of the Year and Personality of the Year Awards.
The workers, who form part of the City Council’s team of street sweepers and cleaners, play an important role in keeping Exeter well-maintained and rubbish free.
Deep Clean team member Duane Stewart was awarded Group Ambassador of the Year for his “professionalism, willingness, and commitment to delivering excellent standards in everything he does”.
The award continues: “Duane has supported a wide range of roles across the service, always approaching tasks with a positive attitude and a willingness to help.
“His dedication and habit of going above and beyond makes him a valued member of the team.”
Van Operative and Sweeper for Burnthouse Lane and St Loyes, Shane Hayman, was Runner-Up for the award. Judges praised Mr Hayman for his “proactive” attitude and said “his dedication has made a real difference to the communities he serves”.
John Marini and John Brown, both of the Car Parks team, were recognised as Highly Commended.
City Council staff voted for their favourite colleague to win Personality of the Year. Paul Ellis, who joined the team in March, received the award.
“Paul has quickly become a real asset,” it was said. “His positive attitude, friendly nature, and willingness to help have made him a valued member of the team from day one.”
The award of Semper Fidelis - Latin for ‘always loyal’ went to Paul Peters for being “someone who can always be counted on and willing to drop everything at a moment’s notice to help get a job done”.
Councillor Ruth Williams, Lead Councillor for City Management, thanked all 78 workers. She said: “These are the unsung heroes of Exeter and without their unswerving efforts, carried out each and every day, often in extreme weather, Exeter would definitely not be the place we all love.
“Over the past few years, despite challenging resources, our sweeper teams have been invaluable, delivering key operations like the early morning sweep, burials, grass and shrub maintenance, graffiti removal and play provision.
“Once again, we have received numerous letters and emails from members of the public and councillors thanking our staff for their efforts. Thank you to everyone within these teams.”