A MAN who offers a friendly lifeline to one his neighbours every day has been named as Sedgefield's best neighbour.

Jimmy Milner, of Burnie Gardens, Shildon, won the Good Neighbour 2006 award in a scheme launched by Sedgefield Borough Council to praise tenants considered a credit to their street.

Mr Milner was nominated for the prize by his neighbour Dorothy Smith.

Wheelchair-user Dorothy, who relies on oxygen 24 hours a day, said: "Although he works, Jimmy is always there for me at the other end of the phone.

"Jimmy does my bulk shopping and, without fail, visits every day.

"When my husband died after a long illness, Jimmy was like an extra son to me and I'd love for him to get some recognition - although he's so modest that'll he'll probably say he doesn't do it for the recognition."

Jimmy's prize was a framed certificate and £100 of B&Q vouchers, and £50 of B&Q Vouchers went to Dorothy for nominating the winner.