A worker in Inverness town center has just completed 35 years of work to keep the streets looking their best.

Street cleaner Martin Macdougall, from Merkinch, says he enjoys working in the Highland capital as he meets people and is outdoors most of the time.

The 57-year-old started working when Inverness was still a city and over the years has seen it develop into a bustling city.

Every day is different

Mr Macdougall, who is an avid cyclist, says every day is different at work, but over the years he has seen changes.

While working through the pandemic, Mr. Macdougall decided to go the extra mile and delivered hundreds of packages to children across the city, and beyond, to give them something to do.

He said: “It’s just a nice job to do and meet new people and I just like to keep my town center clean.

“There were a lot of changes in that time. The city has become much bigger with more hotels.

“The best thing is the people and tourists who come to talk, not just to show you the way, but to tell you that your city looks so clean.

“It gives me the opportunity to chat with them about their visit to Inverness and how beautiful it is.”

When asked if what was dumped on the streets had changed, he replied, “Well, there’s a lot of trash.

“We do a lot of cigarette butts and chewing gum. But we have a chewing gum machine which is ideal for downtown. There’s not so much chewing gum on the streets anymore.

“Certainly more people in the city now than when I started, and with all the big events going on in Inverness it can get really busy.”

“Dedication to excellent service”

When asked if he had a favorite day at work, he replied, “I think every day is something to look forward to, and better when people come over and say ‘thank you for your hard work.’

“A compliment is always appreciated.”

The Inverness Business Improvement District praised Mr Macdougall for his long service.

In a social media post, he said: ‘Congratulations to our town center street cleaner, Martin Macdougall, on his 35th birthday today as a street cleaner with Highland Council!

“An incredible achievement, well done Martin! 35 years of dedication and commitment to providing excellent service.