Honours for street sweepers and ground maintenance staff
Published: 16 October 2019
The people who keep Exeter looking good have been recognised at a special ceremony.
Exeter’s street sweepers and grounds maintenance staff were honoured at the Guildhall.
The 37th Tidy Exeter Group Ambassador & Personality of the Year Awards paid tribute to the 87 City Council workers who contribute to making Exeter look good.
Last year’s runner-up, John Coles, went one better this year, being named Ambassador of the Year.
John, who looks after a public and green space in the city, went to the aid of a member of public, giving first aid on site.
“He is always known to be friendly, approachable and hardworking,” said his citation. “He has taken communication and team work to an outstanding level in 2019.”
This year’s runner-up was Derek Mingo, who has worked for the public and open spaces team since 2011, is involved in cleaning Exeter’s multi-storey car parks.
“Day in and day out, whatever the emergency, Derek is willing to respond and his efforts are much appreciated by staff at the Civic and beyond,” the citation reads.
Highly recommended this year was the Early Morning Sweep Team, who from 6am every morning clean the city centre, clearing up after the night before.
Every year, the workers vote for their Personality of the Year. This year’s vote was tied between Stuart Healy and Brendon Kerswill.
The award of Semper Fidelis went to Martin Duben. Judges said: “Martin’s eye for detail has helped him to achieve standards beyond the expectations of his team leaders.
“Martin gives 100% effort, 100% of the time and he does it at a pace beyond what most individuals could maintain.”