Croydon council are in buoyant mood after one of their recycling teams was awarded as the best in the whole country.

Officially known as recycling crew eight (RC8) the team were praised for their work during the floods earlier this year.

The team did not postpone their collections to residents throughout the crisis.

They were rewarded for their efforts at the Awards for Excellence in Waste Management and Recycling in central London last week.

The RC8 crew, which comprises of Dave Murray, Nick Chappel and Lewis Elvin, won crew of the month four times in the past year.

They have been together for five years and deliver to streets which were worst affected by the flooding.

For about six weeks the crew amended their start times and worked significantly longer hours. They also changed collection arrangements within the working day.

The team also worked closely with the police so they could gain access to particular areas.

Tony Brooks, the council’s director for environment, said: “The work of this team is exceptional and they’re worthy winners of what is a prestigious industry award.

“Importantly, the dedication they regularly show, but was truly to the fore during the recent flooding, is recognised not only by those in the business, but also by the residents they serve who benefit from a top-class service from a crew that’s always ready to go the extra mile and to do so with a smile.”

Paul Southall, Veolia's contract manager, said: "This is a fantastic achievement and the crew really deserve this award as they have gone above and beyond the call of duty, and are a credit to Veolia and Croydon Council."