A NEIGHBOURHOOD'S street wardens are heroes in the eyes of the people who live there.

Residents have successfully nominated Steve Westwood, Tom Gatley and Linda Irvin for "Oscars".

The three, who patrol Middlesbrough's Saltersgill estate, funded by landlord the William Sutton Housing Association, were named community heroes at the first North-East Wardens Awards.

They also each won a life-saving award for rousing a man who had fallen asleep as a fire broke out at his home and going to the rescue of an elderly woman who fell and broke a hip.

Sutton community wardens scheme manager Steve Westwood said: "We all enjoy our work and do what we do as a matter of course. But to be recognised in this way shows that our efforts do not go unnoticed, and help to make a real difference. It is a bit of a morale boost."

Resident Olive Pickering, of Saltersgill Close, said: "The wardens are marvellous. Nothing is too much trouble and they are always on hand to help.

"Just seeing them around the estate makes residents feel safe and secure and they will always walk you to bingo and other events. I am delighted they have been honoured with these awards for all their hard work."

Carl Doolan, the trio's boss, said: "The wardens work very closely with the community and have made real improvements in bringing anti-social behaviour down to a minimum.

"As well as their day to day duties, they go that extra mile to make residents feel safe and secure and improve quality of life for all age groups. These awards are all well deserved."