A SCHOOL caretaker has turned detective to discover who nominated him for one of the greatest honours of his life.

Tony Cox, site supervisor at Haughton School, Darlington, has been chosen as a jubilee runner for the Queen's Jubilee Baton Relay when it passes through the town on July 10.

Honored to be chosen, 61-year-old Mr Cox is already in training for the big day.

But one thing remains a mystery to the former Cleveland Bridge engineer - how he came to be nominated in the first place.

A keen sportsman, he is involved with the Darlington Primary Schools' Football Team. He was also a helper with the 21st Darlington (Harrowgate Hill) Scouts for more than 26 years.

But interrogation of friends in these organisations has drawn a blank.

He has contacted former colleagues at Cleveland Bridge where he worked for 16 years until he was made redundant three years ago, as well as members of his own family.

As yet, no-one has owned up to the deed.

Mr Cox, who is married to Brenda and has two sons and four grandsons, claimed the search was driving him mad.

"Somebody recommended me for this great honour and I only want to thank them," he told the D&S Times.

"I've spoken to everyone who I think might have done it, but as yet no-one has owned up.

"It is only a 500-yard dash but if it had been a half-marathon I would have done it. It think it is a great privilege and I'm absolutely delighted."

The relay, which began on Commonwealth Day, March 11, from Buckingham Palace, will see the baton pass through 22 Commonwealth countries before it returns to the UK on June 6.

Once back, 5,000 runners will take it on its final journey through 500 UK towns in 50 days before handing it to the Queen to read its enclosed message on July 25, at the opening ceremony of the Commonwealth Games in Manchester