Heating and plumbing engineer, Paul Dove, 43, from Lincolnshire, received worthy recognition at the UK Worker of the Year awards.

The competition to recognise and reward excellence in the British workforce, sponsored by Dickies and Suzuki GB, recieved over five thousand entries this year, with eight finalists attending the gala awards finale at the Madejski stadium.

Paul reached the top five and was rewarded for his commitment and passion towards to his job with a trophy, Suzuki GB goodies and £200 in workwear vouchers courtesy of Dickies Store.

It was the first time UK Worker of the Year organisers have left the choice of winner to the audience, who saw a video of each of the eight finalists before voting for their favourite on their keypads.

Paul, who has worked as a heating and plumbing engineer since leaving school, battled against his on stage nerves and impressed the audience with his dedication and commitment to his job.

The UK Worker of the Year title was awarded to Dorchester farmer Judi James, who was also given the choice between a Suzuki Swift and GSR 750 motorcycle as her winner’s prize. Second and third place went to roofer Dean Gerstel from Barnsley and electrician Mark Hughes from Henley on Thames respectively.

Paul said: “I was nervous getting up on stage but the awards evening was brilliant. I’m delighted to have been recognised by Dickies for the work I do and I’ll no doubt continue providing my customers with the best service possible.”

UK Worker of the Year is now in its fourth year of seeking out, rewarding and promoting excellence in the British workforce, and is already gearing up for next year’s competition.

“I just want to congratulate all of our eight finalists and everyone else who entered the competition. It’s important to recognise such hard workers in the UK and all eight individuals standing on the stage today were worthy winners,” said Maurice Morton, sales and marketing director Dickies UK.

For more information on UK Worker of the Year or to follow the latest news on UK Worker of the Year 2014, please visit www.ukworkeroftheyear.com.