A STREET warden has received national recognition for keeping Swindon's streets free from rubbish and graffiti.

Becky Dudley, 30, of Ferndale, was shortlisted as one of the three best wardens in the country in the Noel Nelson Personal Achieve-ment Awards.

The awards honour people who help reduce crime and improve the lives of people in their community.

Becky, who is the lead neighbourhood warden, based at Baileys Farm Gardens, was named as runner-up after managers at Swindon Council nominated her.

She said: "Several of my bosses were asked to write letters of recommendation.

"It's really nice to know you are appreciated.

"I love giving something back every day. When I first heard about the job, I thought it was a great chance to get involved in the community.

"And I do feel quite proud when I see everything looking nice."

Coun David Renard said: "Becky is a great ambassador form the Neighbourhood Warden service.

"The service has made a real difference to the quality of life or our tenants."

Becky joined the scheme when it started in 2002 and was promoted to lead warden in April.

Her team of eight makes sure Walcot East, Wroughton, West Swindon and the Railway Village are kept clean and safe. She is also training youngsters to take pride in their areas and join the junior warden scheme.

She added: "If you can get the kids to take an interest in looking after their estates, they are much less likely to drop litter, or spray graffiti on it because they respect the hard work that goes into keeping it nice.

"And once they get into it, they really enjoy it."

Becky was told she had received second place at a ceremony for the National Wardens' Awards in Man-chester.

She said: "I was so thrilled. My job is all about making places better for people.

"Sometimes people say thank you, but I never expected this.

Becky's line manager Tony Linter praised her tireless commitment and determination to get results.

The council has funded the warden and caretaker services for all areas of council housing in the borough since April.

Coun Renard said they would be reviewing its progress with people living nearby.

Residents of the Parks and Walcot areas, which Becky and her team patrol, have been invited to a meeting with the council to discuss plans for the future of the service.

The meetings will be held at the Civic Offices on November 29 at 2.30pm and December 7, at 6.30pm.

The street warden scheme is a Government initiative to provide a high-profile, uniformed, semi-official presence in communities.