CUSTOMERS have voted Jim Dunne, 35, as Teignmouth's Milkman of the Year.
Narrowly missing out on gaining the title of Dairy Crest Milkman of the Year from 2,500 hopefuls, he is still delighted to have been recognised for all his hard work.
Mr Dunne from Dawlish, who has been a milkman for five years, and been at Teignmouth for two, proved that he was a popular figure from the start with many nominations received from people on his milk round.
With his cheeky smile and happy go lucky manner, he is always friendly, talks to customers, is a courteous driver and always positive. Nothing is too much trouble for him.
Mr Dunne said: 'I'm delighted to receive so much support from my customers. I would like to thank them as it's a real boost to be recognised for doing a good job.'
Getting up at 2.30 in the morning, Mr Dunne certainly puts the effort in to make sure that fresh milk is on the doorstep of customers for their breakfast.
Dave Mason, Dairy Crest operations manager said: 'The response from our customers has been fantastic and just goes to show the high regard that our customers have for their milkman. Jim is very deserving of the praise and always delivers a first class service.'
Serving the area from Dawlish up to Kenton, Mr Dunne hails from the Teignmouth depot that employs 18 people and is part of Dairy Crest's UK network of 115 depots – all of which took part in the competition.
The depot provides dairy products to around 7,000 households in the area and has been based at its Broadmeadow Estate site since 1976.