A MAN known as 'the singing street sweeper' has been named as citizen of the year in his town.

Steve Simpson, who cheers locals up as he goes about his work whistling or singing, has been named Guisborough's Citizen of the Year by the town council.

At the council's recent annual Civic Evening, Guisborough Mayor Janice Skelton presented him with the award.

She said: “It is my honour to present Steve with this award. He goes above and beyond his role, and is always polite and friendly to everyone he encounters.

"He is an asset to the town.”

Mr Simpson, 56, who has been employed to clean the area since 2015, and is known to sing or whistle to himself occasionally, said: “I always try to do a good job but it’s really nice to be recognised.

"It was a really good feeling.

"I try to sweep the shop fronts and talk to people - but I never expected anything like this.”

Mr Simpson’s line manager at Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council, Neighbourhood Officer Andy Roberts, said: “Steve is very community-focused and professional and nothing is too much for him. I’m really pleased for him that he got this award.”