Fresh calls have been made for a well-loved park keeper to become an MBE.

It was two years ago when the campaign, backed by thousands of people, was launched for Whitehaven's Michael Little to receive the honour from the Queen.

Since then, a number of high profile figures have written to Buckingham Palace to support 70-year-old Michael's nomination.

The latest is Copeland MP Trudy Harrison who said she could think of nobody more "deserving and appropriate" than Michael.

She said: "Michael has dedicated his life to Whitehaven, his commitment is exemplary, working every day for over 50 years to maintain Whitehaven's most prominent and much frequented parkland.

"I have fond family memories myself of long days spent in Whitehaven's beautiful park with our young daughters, preciously and meticulously maintained by Michael.

"Always keen to chat, his cheerful, smiling face lighting up our days and indeed those of everyone who visited his park."

Others supporting the cause are Copeland mayor Mike Starkie, the borough's former MP Jamie Reed and former council leader Elaine Woodburn.

Current MBE holders are also backing Mr Little including retired teacher Rob Huck and well-known businessman Gerard Richardson.

Mr Little is a well-known character around Whitehaven, mostly for the endless hours he has put in keeping the town's parks tidy for almost 50 years.

In his 48-year career, which began when he was 18, Mr Little was only off work once when he dislocated his shoulder. He worked seven days a week up until he retired in 2011 at the age of 65.

His popularity with the public and hard work and commitment was commended in 2009 when he was the subject of a bronze sculpture which was displayed in the harbourside museum the Beacon following a public vote.

And he was also awarded the first ever Outstanding Community Champion award by Cumbria in Bloom judges in 2011.

Even after he retired five years ago, he continued his voluntary work around town.

Michael celebrated his 70th birthday last December at his new home, Johnson House in Hillcrest, Whitehaven.