Road sweeper John Lawrence has been commended for never doing a rubbish job.

Mr Lawrence has been honoured by residents of Regency, Clarence and Russell Squares in Brighton for always keeping the area looking spick and span.

The Brighton and Hove City Council employee has been made an honorary member by the Regency Square Area Society in recognition of his sterling sweeping.

Mr Lawrence, 42, said he was touched by the award and added: "It came as a complete surprise. I never expected to receive anything like this. It is great to be appreciated and to know people are thinking of you.

"I have been the only cleaner for the Regency Square area for more than four years. It's a messy job and it can be very difficult at times but I always try to be cheerful and helpful."

Committee member Fred Boulden, who has lived in the area for 20 years, said since Mr Lawrence took over the patch it had never looked better.

Mr Boulden said: "John always keeps the place looking immaculate. He is familiar to all the residents and also people in the hotels.

"We just thought it would be a nice idea to make him an honorary member of the society.

"We are not giving him a golden broom but we put something in our newsletter as a bit of appreciation."

His wife, Ros, added: "This is the first honorary membership of this nature that has been made in the 20-year history of the society.

"We decided to honour John with this award to recognise the work he has done. It's a reflection of the strength of support from the members for the difficult task he does."

Cleaning manager Steve Murray said: "John is the sweeper I have had the most good work calls for over the years."