Dustman brothers mark 109 years

'Best and most reliable workers' - David, Peter and Derek Tingey

Three brothers have been recognised for their combined 109 years of service as refuse collectors in Oxfordshire.

David, Peter and Derek Tingey - aged 62, 60 and 57 respectively - have worked for Cherwell District Council for more than a century.

Successive generations of dustmen in the family began with father Ronald, who also worked in their crew until he died in 1987.

David Tingey has been recognised for his 40 years of service.

He received a plaque and a "small bonus".

'Most reliable'

David started work in 1969 and said things have "all changed" since then.

"I remember when we used to have to pick up metal bins full of ashes and carry them over our shoulders," he said.

"You needed a mate to help tip it in the back of the truck.

"These days the recycling, garden waste and rubbish is all separated out and each is dealt with differently."

His brother, Peter, has worked for 39 years and has never taken a sick day. The youngest Tingey brother, Derek joined them in 1979.

Refuse and recycling supervisor, John Gough, who also started out as a refuse collector 30 years ago, said: "They're probably the best and most reliable workers I've got.

"They turn up every day, knuckle down and get on with it. They're also usually the first here in the mornings and all come in with a brilliant attitude."