A MILKMAN has been nominated as one of the cream of the crop.

Stan Green, 54, of Warsett Road, Marske, Cleveland, is in the running for the Milkman of the Year title.

Mr Green has worked as a milkman for 40 years at the Greencroft department of Co-op Dairies, in Durham City.

He was nominated for the award by his customers, who praised him for making deliveries in all weathers.

He said: "I am thrilled with my nomination. It is nice to know that what you do is appreciated, and I would like to thank my customers for nominating me."

The Milkman of the Year competition recognises the special service that milkmen provide to their communities.

Julian Oackman, of the National Dairymen's Association, said: "We asked all doorstep delivery customers to tell us why they think their milkman deserves the title. Their reasons and comments will form the basis for the final decision, rather than the volume of votes received for each milkman.

"We wish Stan the best of luck in the race for the title."

Twelve regional finalists will be selected next month to go through to the grand final in April.

The finalists will then spend a day with judges proving why they deserve the title and should take home the first prize of a £15,000 Volvo S40