ONE of the people who help keep the Forest clean had a surprise from an anonymous fan.

Roger Adams works for Biffa, on behalf of the Forest of Dean District Council, and is a popular local “bin man”.

He is well-regarded in the district for his work and cheerful nature and an anonymous well-wisher decided it was time he had some well-deserved recognition.

The cake was paid for anonymously and baked by the Crusty Loaf in Coleford.

Pat Scott of the nearby Scott’s Fruit and Veg did the honours by presenting the cake, which shows a figure sweeping and the words ‘Diamond Boy’, to Roger.

Mrs Scott said: “The cake was given in recognition and celebration of Roger’s long service to the community through his tireless endeavour to keep the streets clean, empty the rubbish bins and clear away ‘fly-tipped’ rubbish.

“Roger is well appreciated by the community for his dedication to his job, his open and friendly personality and obliging nature.

Unsung hero Roger is keen to find out the name of his benefactor but that is being kept a secret.

Mrs Scott added: “It is individuals like Roger who, through their actions, create a cohesiveness within the community and it is perhaps a sign of the times that such persons escape their deserved recognition.”