Midweek Herald editor presents bicycle and XBox during long service ceremony.

BIG surprises were in store for hard working members of the Otter Rotters team during a special presentation ceremony last week.

Unsuspecting workers Paul Darlow, of Honiton, and Paul Bastyan, of Ottery St Mary, were rewarded for their tireless dedication to duty over the past five and eight years, respectively.

Mr Darlow, who cycles to work, was presented with a brand new bicycle, supplied by W V Fish Cycles, of Sidmouth.

An XBox and collection of games were then presented to Mr Bastyan.

The presentations were made by Belinda Bennett, editor of The Midweek Herald, at The Otter Inn, on Tuesday afternoon.

Workers and volunteers from the not-for-profit community enterprise gathered to watch the presentations and to pay tribute to their colleagues.

Among them were Otter Rotters’ directors Mandy Jennings and Roger Taylor, as well as latest recruit consultant David Blackwell.

Special cakes, made to mark the occasion, were also presented to the award winners and then shared among guests.

Mr Darlow said of his job: “I like meeting different people all the time and I get on well with all the staff.”

Mr Bastyan said: “I get on well with everyone and I like the fitness aspect of the work.”

Ms Jennings said of the two Pauls: “Come rain or shine, they are out there.”

Otter Rotters, which works in partnership with East Devon District Council, is expanding its work to the Axe Valley following the withdrawal of skips.

“We are here for residents’ convenience,” said Ms Jennings.