Steve Hughes, manager of Ladbrokes bookmakers, Northgate Street, Chester, said he was "touched with pride" when he discovered two of his regulars, Ted and Betty Tatler, both in their 70s, had nominated him for the national Ladbrokes customer service 'Wow' award. Ted and Betty said it was Steve's thoughtfulness and kindness over the last few years that led to the nomination.

The husband and wife were especially touched when Steve visited them in their home in Hoole, Chester, after illness forced the couple to postpone their regular visits to the betting shop.

Steve, 46, who regularly telephones the couple to ask how they are, visited the pair in their home with flowers and chocolates.

As well as nominating Steve for the "Wow" award, Ted and Betty also submitted a poem written by their daughter about Steve's ongoing acts of kindness. The poem tells how Steve is a credit to his firm, thoughtful and generous.

Steve, who has been manager of the shop for seven years, beat competition from 1,200 candidates to win the award, which he collected at a ceremony held at The Millennium Worcester Hotel in London.

Steve said: "I am so very proud of this awards and wish to say a big thank you to all involved, especially Ted and Betty who are lovely people and great customers."