Dedicated Bexhill charity worker

pic at hastings foto

Ash Dhokia is 52 and has worked for Together, a mental health charity based in London, for 28 years without taking a single sick day.

Mr Dhokia, of Magdalen Road, does not attribute his exceptional record to anything specific.

He said: "I don't believe it's anything I can put my finger on, I've been very fortunate in my health. I have no kind of healthy regime, I just work. My work - life balance is very good, I think."

His good health has lasted despite the stressful nature of his work; an area manager, Mr Dhokia is responsible for a number of services across Surrey.

Each day involves at least 100 miles of driving. He is currently working through his third Rover since joining the company in 1979.

Mr Dhokia was entered for the competition by his HR director, Liam Cole.

Mr Cole said: "He was leading the competition right up to the last minute, until this late entry. He was so close. I think he was quite pleased with the recognition for his efforts, and he obviously likes the opportunity to promote the charity."

The late winner was a woman from the north of England, who had served her company continuously since 1972.

Mr Dhokia does not plan to retire anytime soon, so will be well placed for any similar contests in the future, should his fortune hold.