A 'LOVABLE rogue' has been recognised for his positive temperament and hardworking ethos by a local resident.

David Broom, part of the Chantry Centre's cleaning crew, has received an Attitude of Gratitude Award from local litter campaigner, Manuela Wahnon.

Ms Wahnon presented her seventh award to Mr Broom, the longest-serving staff member at the shopping centre.

He was given the accolade for his 'Cheerfulness in the Face of Adversity.'

Mr Broom was even part of the team that demolished part the old centre of Andover to make way for the Chantry Centre.

David said; "I didn't expect it but I always consider myself a prisoner because I helped pull all this down before the town centre changed, and now I'm working here and I'm still working here!

"Thank you very much for this award."

The 69-year-old could only stay around to celebrate for a short while as he had an appointment at Totcity to help play Father Christmas.

Ms Wahnon said: "It simply gives me a buzz to be able to recognise and reward individuals that, through the magnitude of their personality, help to brighten and shine a light on all those that they meet during their working days.

"He is chirpy and happy - this despite his knees one of which has been operated on.

"There is nothing he doesn’t do, from cleaning the toilets to sweeping and general maintenance, and will help anyone and everyone."

Councillor Phil North, who presented the award, said: "It's great to recognise all the unsung heroes of Andover which do such good work serving our community."

Ms Wahnon added: "He is unfailingly cheerful, hardworking and never ceases to help anyone that needs a hand.

"He is quite literally the Chantry Centre's ray of sunshine.

"And it was a privilege and an a honour, that so many people were happy to give of their time, to make today possible."