Two council workers who provided a lifeline for the residents of Fulford during the floods were today rewarded for their unstinting efforts.

When the Fordlands Road area of Fulford was cut off by flood waters, two City of York Council highway maintenance workers were called in to get residents through the deluge on a truck dubbed the Fordlands Ferry.

Today, Mike Parry and his colleague, Jim Sotheran, were rewarded by residents who made a collection and presented them with £55 each during a special ceremony at Fordlands Road residential home for the elderly.

Sharon Grant, who works at the home, and is also a resident of Fordlands Road, thanked the two men.

She said: "I was reading the Evening Press on Saturday about the Army being given the freedom of the city. "Unfortunately I'm not in a position to bestow that honour but you are welcome to call at any house in the area for a cuppa.

"We all thank you both for being part of our lives for the past two weeks. Nothing was too much trouble for you both."

Jessie Clithero, administration support assistant at the home, said: "They looked like drowned rats most of the time, but always had a smile."

Michael Gasgoigne, owner of JM & D Gasgoigne newsagent in Fordlands Road, was also presented with a pair of wellington boots and his wife, Dorothy, with a bunch of flowers. Michael and Dorothy managed to keep their shop stocked up with essentials and deliver copies of the Evening Press to residents on the other side of the flood waters thanks to the Fordlands Ferry.

Mick said: "We're a bit overwhelmed and shocked really, but it's an honour as well.

"The generosity and kindness the people showed to us over that fortnight was unbelievable, especially as they were going through hardship.

"We'll miss all the new friends we made and especially the children."