ONE of the men heading a campaign to combat door-step crime is in line for one his industry's top honours.

North Yorkshire trading standards chief Stuart Pudney is a strong contender for the title Outstanding Public Servant of the Year 2005.

Mr Pudney, based in Northallerton, has already beaten tough competition from more than 180 people working in public services throughout the UK.

He is one of three finalists in the Working Together category - the award for progress through partnership - and, if successful, he will automatically become a contender for the Outstanding Public Servant of the Year Award.

He has been nominated because of the difference he has made to vulnerable people through his work to combat doorstep crime, backed by The Northern Echo.

Working in partnership with colleagues in the North of England Trading Standards Group, he set up a website, www.doorstepcrime.com, which sets out good practice on dealing with people who try to defraud and steal.

Best practice training has also been delivered to more than 300 local organisations, including 180 councils.

He also drafted a high profile Private Member's Bill The Property Repairers (Prohibition of Cold Calling) Bill, in partnership with the police and Help the Aged.

"I'm absolutely thrilled, but very conscious that this has been a real team effort," said Mr Pudney. "My colleagues and friends in the North of England Trading Standards Group have been an endless source of encouragement and support.

"But my real praise goes to the thousands of people at the frontline who are committed to making this such a success."

The awards ceremony will be held in London on April 21.