A PEST control worker called police after he found an abandoned four-year-old crying in the street in Halliwell.

Andy Taylor, aged 37, from Sharples, was praised for his actions — along with other Bolton Council staff — at the annual Bolton’s Best awards.

Mr Taylor found the boy had been locked out the house and left by his mother while she went shopping three months ago.

He said: “This little boy was distraught and he was really screaming. He managed to explain to me what had happened so I called the police and waited with him until they came. It was very upsetting.

“I’m a bit embarrassed to say this but I always try and do the small things that can mean a lot to other people. It sounds a bit cheesy but that’s how I try to be at work.”

Other outstanding council workers were also nominated by their peers at the awards on Tuesday at the Bolton Whites Hotel at the Reebok Stadium.

From helpful handymen to a lifetime of hard work in fostering services, the awards covered a broad spectrum of achievement.

The ceremony was led by Bolton Council’s chief executive Sean Harriss, who said it was more important than ever to recognise the dedication of staff working on the front line during “challenging times” for the local authority.

Mr Harriss said: “The reason these awards are so important is because it is vital to boost morale and motivation for staff during these definitely challenging times across the borough.

“We are a people business and the way in which staff work is with customers. These awards really bring home how many different services we offer and how many unsung heroes there are in those services.” The Best Manager Award went to Paula Christian from the Thicketford Day Care Centre.

Ms Christian, aged 54 from Clifton, said: “It’s wonderful to receive this award and a big surprise. We are going through challenging times and it is nice to receive thanks for what we do.”

Readers of The Bolton News voted for the Best Customer Care award, with Ann Brown, Blackrod Library Manager winning.

She was nominated for the work she did this year supporting the Blackrod Scarecrow Festival, including opening the library as a centre on a voluntary basis.

She was also praised for her customer care skills and her enthusiasm.