Gold-top day for the cream of the crop

After weeks of deliberation it’s official – Roy Dyer is the cream of the nation’s roundsman after winning the title of Milkman of the Year.

He was awarded the title by incoming Dairy UK chairman, David Curry MP at a gold-top event at London’s Simpsons in the Strand restaurant yesterday (June 30).

Roy, based at Dairy Crest’s Hanworth depot in West London has tirelessly campaigned to raise money for Leukaemia Research. He gives talks to primary school children, offers support to his elderly customers and has appeared in two educational films about milk, one which was aimed at pushing UK milk sales in Finland. Franchisee Roy, serves over nearly 700 customers on his round in Hanworth, Middlesex, many of whom he counts as close friends. Roy has worked in the milk industry for over 20 years.

Last year he made a 10,000 foot parachute jump and he is already planning this year’s challenge – wing walking on a bi-plane!

Runner up, Steven Tankard, a Bottled Milk Buyer supplied by Dairy Farmers of Britain’s Norton depot, has been a milkman for 21 years and delivers to 470 customers in the Lodgemoor and Fulwood areas of Sheffield.

Third place goes to Liverpudlian, Tommy Callagher of Express Dairies, a well-known fundraiser who is also ITV’s ‘Merseyside Local Hero’.

The Milkman of the Year awards are organised by Dairy UK to showcase the best in the industry and to recognise the talent of its workers. It’s also a chance to highlight the contribution our milkmen make to the community.

Edmund Proffitt, Processing Manager for Dairy UK says, “We are delighted to give these finalists the recognition they deserve. The standard of entry was as high as ever and they all go well above and beyond the call of duty.”

“Our winner, Roy Dyer, is an outstanding example, but let’s not forget the unsung heroes who go out in all weather to supply customers straight to their doorsteps. They provide an excellent service and are a real lifeline for many people.”

The finalists were each presented with a certificate and a silver tankard. Roy picked up the winning cheque for £1,250. Second prize was £500 and third prize was £250.