Mr Canvey, Ray Howard, was today on cloud nine after being honoured for his tireless work on the island for 37 years.
Great honour - Ray Howard, alias Mr Canvey, after being awarded the freedom of the borough by Castle Point mayor Chris Freeman Picture: MAXINE CLARKE
Mr Howard, 61, was second only to former MP Sir Bernard Braine to be awarded freedom of the Castle Point borough at a lavish ceremony with political colleagues and VIPs.
The meeting, at Castle Point Council, was told how Mr Howard even allowed one Christmas Day to be interrupted to go and unblock a resident's toilet with his own plunger!
He admits he only works 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year because he knows he makes a difference to the community.
He was overwhelmed at the number of people packed in to the council's chamber and was stunned at the cheers and applause he received.
He said: "I was lost for words, I didn't envisage it, but it made me feel great."
Published Tuesday March 23, 2004
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