A PARK ranger who has patrolled Burnley’s green spaces for more than three decades has won a prestigious national award in honour of his efforts.

Readers of The Guardian newspaper voted for Steve Richards to be named Public Servant of the Year at the Guardian Public Services Awards.

He was chosen in recognition of his commitment to patrolling parkland, council buildings and tackling anti-social behaviour.

Broadcaster and BBC Radio 2 presenter Jeremy Vine hosted the event at Old Billingsgate in London last night.

He said: “A Park Ranger for 31 years, Steve has dealt with all kinds of situations, from recapturing pet snakes to dealing with missing toddlers.

“Steve often works alone, on call or late at night and has, on occasions, been physically assaulted. In 2008 he attended a fatal stabbing in one of Burnley's parks and tried to administer first aid to the victim, in a situation where his own personal safety was at risk.

“While this experience shook Steve he says his love of the job has never wavered and if he had another 30 years he’d do the same again.”

David Brindle, The Guardian’s public services editor, said: “Steve Richards' utter dedication to the job over more than 30 years shows what public service is all about.”