HAMBLETON'S new loo cleaner is flushed with success after retaining the top rating at toilets in Swainby achieved by his predecessors.

John Westcough took over from Len and Hilda Swales, who hung up their loo brushes earlier this year after cleaning the village conveniences for eight years.

Both Swainby and Osmotherley toilets gained four-star ratings in this year's Loo of the Year contest, with the facilities in Bedale, Thirsk Market Place and Thirsk Car Park and Stokesley getting three- star awards.

Councillor Arthur Barker, Hambleton District Council's cabinet spokesperson for environmental health, said: "The appearance and cleanliness of all our facilities is paramount. We applaud all our cleaners, who take great pride in their work."