Drivers vote fun-loving traffic warden as their hero of the year

Apr 27 2008 By Heather Greenaway

Exclusive Drivers Vote Fun-Loving Traffic Warden George As Their Hero Of The Year

PATROLLING the streets with his ticket book in hand, George Rankin should be public enemy No1 - but instead he's the toast of the town.

George is Scotland's friendliest traffic warden.

He's so well liked that motorists nominated him for an unsung hero citizen's award.

But he still hits his targets as he books you with a smile.

The tickety-boo dad-of-two is noted for his courtesy and is famous for being fair when it comes to giving out tickets in Helensburgh.

Yesterday, George, 54, of Alexandria, said: "People think I have one of the worst jobs but I have one of the best and I would not change it for the world.

"I just love what I do and have discovered that even the most tense situations can be diffused with a bit of humour and understanding.

"If people want to explain why they are double parked or have a genuine reason for making a mistake I will always take time to listen."

"Being nominated by the public is just magic and something I never expected. It is not often you hear 'traffic warden' and 'hero' in the same sentence."

George was a finalist at the Helensburgh Garelochside Rotary Club Citizen Awards hosted by Rangers boss Walter Smith - and turned into the star of the show.

His nomination read: "A traffic warden noted for his courtesy towards errant drivers. Liked for his charming and friendly approach."

George revealed: "The provost, Billy Petrie, joked he would have to put up the council tax as I was not bringing in enough money from parking tickets."

But yesterday, Mr Petrie said: "George is one of the most charming and helpful people I have ever met. He's an ambassador and a real asset.

"I once asked him if he would give me a ticket and he said, 'In a heartbeat.' But only because I asked. He's a real character."

George, married to Jean, 51, has two sons, Christopher, 22, and Adam, 20.

A traffic warden for five years, he insists being nice does not stop him doing his job properly.

He said: "You might not think it but I do give out an average number of tickets in a year. I just don't give them for the sake of it.

"I'm also a walking, talking information office for all the tourists who come to bonnie Helensburgh. How could I ever get bored?"

Local chief inspector Andy MacDonald said: "George is an enthusiastic and committed traffic warden who is well known and respected in the town.