FOR years he has been the "meeter and greeter" for thousands of people visiting Middlesbrough Council offices, but now John Druery has raised the barrier for the last time.

Mr Druery, a former crane driver and blacksmith's assistant at Smiths Dock, has been the car park attendant at the civic centre and municipal buildings for the past ten years.

A former shop steward, he said the negotiating skills he learned in that role were a great help in the job he is leaving. "I think it is fair to say that there are usually more people wanting to park at the Town Hall than there are spaces".

"So you do need to be fair but firm and try to keep everyone happy. Even when I have had to turn people away, I have tried to do so with a smile."

John has worked for HBS since 2001, when the company's partnership with Middlesbrough Council began.

Tim Lonsdale, HBS northern region managing director, said: "John has been in the front line for ten years doing a job which would at times test the skills of a senior diplomat. He has always done it in a professional and friendly manner. He's the first person most people meet when they visit the council and he gives them an excellent first impression. He is an excellent ambassador for HBS and the council."

Mr Lonsdale joined Mayor Ray Mallon to present Mr Druery with a retirement gift and cake - complete with a barrier and attendant - at the Town Hall yesterday.