A CAR park attendant who handed in more than £70 he found has been praised for his honesty.

Malcolm Wanstall, who works in the car park at the town hall, Eston, Middlesbrough, was given the money after no one came forward to claim it.

Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council's Mayor, Councillor Norah Cooney, invited Mr Wanstall for afternoon tea this week and presented him with a framed certificate with a citation from Chief Superintendent Dee Collins, of Langbaurgh Police.

Mr Wanstall said: "I never expected anything like this. I certainly did not expect to get the money back. I never thought of keeping it, I just thought someone must have dropped it."

Councillor Joyce Benbow said: "I am very, very pleased for him. It proves the old adage, honesty is the best policy."

Chief Supt Collins said: "I commend Mr Wanstall for his honesty and upright citizenship in handing the money in and take pleasure in returning it to him. It is well-deserved.

"Mr Wanstall serves as a model of good citizenship and values. He is an asset to his community."