A FRIENDLY caretaker who has spent years putting smiles on children’s faces is now smiling himself after being nominated for the Newport Night of Honour Awards.

Anthony Trigg, 47, of Newport, has worked as a caretaker and site manager at Eveswell Primary School for the past five years making sure the school runs smoothly and to keep the children are smiling.

Now his dedication to the school has been recognised by parent Caroline Spear, who nominated him for the Public Service Superhero award after being was impressed by the rapport he develops with the children and parents.

Mr Trigg’s nomination comes as one of the last in a series of nominations for the Newport Night of Honour Awards, who are in for the chance of winning the title at a ceremony which will take place on September 22.

The Kings Church has teamed up with Argus for the third year running to find people and organisations that have gone the extra mile to help others.

The eight categories include; the above and beyond award, public service superhero award, parent of the year, volunteer of the year; and community organisation of the year.

The father of three, has seen his daughters go through the school and in that time has taken part in many of the schools activities including trips and fancy dress events; as well as his duties of ensuring the school runs smoothly during opening and closing times.

His nominator said: “I first met Mr Trigg two-years ago when my daughter attended Eveswell Nursery and was immediately impressed by the rapport he develops with the children and parents.

“He is the face of the school, at the main school gate prior to the start of school, and greeting the parents while unlocking the security gates at home-time.

Mr Trigg said: “I got involved with the nursery through volunteering on trips and was asked if I would like a job there as a site manager in 2008.

“My general duties include greeting the children at the school gates in a morning and I like to greet them with a high-five.

“It puts a smile on their faces and in the last couple of years the children have began to look forward to coming in to school to get their high-five off me.

“They miss me when I am not there.

“I feel quite privileged to be nominated for this award, as a lot of parents have shown their appreciation for the work I do at the school.”