A BUS driver from the region has been voted one of Britain's hunkiest husbands.

Dad Tony Balmer, of Darlington, is to become a calendar pin-up after being voted a hunk by readers of Best magazine.

The 40-year-old, who was nominated for the competition by his wife, Julie, will feature in the Hunky Husbands and Beautiful Boyfriends calendar 2002.

More than 600 readers voted for the Durham County Council worker.

Mr Balmer said: "It's a big ego boost, especially when you're 40.

"I don't think I've ever won anything in my life before. It's really exciting though. Thanks for all the readers that voted for me."

Best editor Louise Court said: "From the beginning to the end, it has been so encouraging to see the pride that the wives and girlfriends take in their partners. It really does leave you with the feel good factor."

Tony also won a luxury break in London and attended an awards dinner.