A NORTH-EAST computer specialist is in with a chance of being crowned national Council Worker of the Year.

Keith Miller, senior project manager at Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council, has been shortlisted in this years awards.

The competition seeks to celebrate the work of the unsung heroes working in the public sector.

Members of the public are being urged to vote for him to ensure he is in with a chance to win.

He has been shortlisted in the Innovation category of the national awards.

Through his work, the council has become the first authority in Europe to social workers in remote locations with access to secure files and records.

He said: "I am very honoured to be selected for this award. Not only is it great recognition of the project, but also an opportunity to thank my colleagues for their contribution and hard work.

"With all the new and exciting technologies that are now available, it is extremely rewarding to be able to use these to bring about benefits for social workers and residents receiving care."

People can vote on-line by following the link at website localgovernmentchannel.com/awards Alternatively, they can text LGATV 6 KeithM to 80039.

Voting forms are also available from the council's corporate communications team on 01642-444676.

Voting lines will be open until Tuesday, July 2.