Dedicated street cleaners who keep Dudley free from litter and graffiti have been praised for their hard work after the borough’s roads were branded the cleanest in the country.

The 72-strong team, based at Lister Road Depot is out on the road seven days a week sweeping up rubbish and scrubbing graffiti. The 12 women and 60 men, who range in age from the youngest in their 20s and the oldest in their 60s, provide a 24-hour service. They have seen their efforts helping the borough to stay tidy honoured in this year’s Association of Public Service Excellence awards (APSE).

It sees them reclaim the top spot which they previously held in 2007. It also caps off a successful five years for the team, which has maintained a position in the top four best performers during this time.

One of the street cleaners celebrating is father-of-two Steve Jakeman, who lives with wife Elaine in John Street, Brierley Hill. He has worked at Dudley Council for eight years.

The 50-year-old’s work mostly involves trying to remove graffiti from walls and subways around the borough.

He said: “It can be quite tough because we get rid of the graffiti one day and it is back the next but everybody mucks in together and we are a good team.

“It is nice to be honoured but at the end of the day it is about providing a good service to the public that counts.”

Street cleansing team manager Dave Wesson, who has worked at the council for 32 years, said: “The team takes great pride in the job and they work hard.

“We finished in first place in 2007 and last year we were second so I’m really pleased we have been able to step up to win it again.”

Cabinet member for transport Councillor Angus Adams said: “This is absolutely fantastic news and we are very proud that the team has received this honour.

“We know there are always improvements that can be made but what this award does show without doubt is that the residents of Dudley are receiving a superior service to many others across the country.”

APSE look at all aspects of the service provided such as value for money and training of staff.

The awards are based on a council’s performance in terms of training, communication and operational service delivery.