The fastest milkman in the west he may be - but to his regulars Shane Hayes is simply the cream of the crop.

Customers on his busy Westcliff round have voted him gold top in a national awards scheme for committed milkies.

Shane, 34, now goes forward to the final of a national competition where he will battle it out for the title of milkman of year 1999.

He has been delivering milk for five years, working for Dairy Crest.

Customer Ann Loughnane, of Ramuz Drive, Westcliff, said: "He works hard delivering milk early in the morning, in all weathers and when everyone is sleeping.

"However, he still manages to be cheerful and good humoured."

Shane will travel to London with the other winning milkmen and women for the final at the Commonwealth Club on January 23 and 24.

The winner of the overall title will take home a brand new Skoda Felicia car, while the nominator will receive a luxury holiday for two in Florida.

Top milkie - Shane Hayes is off to the milkman of the year finals, thanks to votes from his customers

Picture: ANDY PALMER

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