THE search to find the region’s top worker has delivered a bumper postbag of nominations.

The Northern Echo has joined forces with the North East Chamber of Commerce (NECC) to reward inspirational employees.

The first winner of the monthly Going the Extra Mile award was Sarah Hodgson, 28, a supervisor from Delves Lane, near Consett, County Durham, who walked 15 miles over four hours through the snow to Oldfields Restaurant, in Durham City.

Workers who go beyond the call of duty are being rewarded with £100 with the top entry by the end of the year scooping an additional £300.

Margaret Foster, 53, from Langley Moor, County Durham, has been nominated by her mother for February’s accolade.

She walks almost four miles every day from her home to the Citroen garage in Croxdale, near Durham City, to her job as a receptionist.

“She deserves a medal,” Mrs Yates said.

Nominations for the award can be sent to Nigel Burton, The Northern Echo, Priestgate, Darlington, DL1 1NF.

Entries must be no more than 50 words and include the sender’s name, address and daytime phone number.