An urban litter-picker who was the victim of a savage attack could be in line for a civic award honouring his efforts to keep the streets clean.

Carlisle’s well-known eco-warrior was beaten up at the end of last month as he went about his daily mission which sees him walk around 20 miles per day.

Richard Foster, 26, is has become a familiar face in the city as he trudges around the city cleaning up after other people.

Independent councillor Jack Paton suggested the authority should do something to formally recognise his work and asked councillor Chris Southward, Environment and Transport Portfolio Holder, if this could be arranged.

Speaking at the last meeting of the full council before the election, he said: “Does the portfolio holder think it would be a great gesture to present him with some kind of community award for the work he does, especially in light of the savage beating he has received recently?

“He’s a lovely young fellow and he spends all his time walking around the city collecting litter.”

Every day, between 5am and 6am, Mr Foster, leaves his Mayfield Avenue home in Harraby, and begins a seven-hour litter-picking shift.

Coun Southward said that coun Paton should put in the request for a community award forward but reminded the chamber that Mr Foster had already been the recipient of a presentation award from the city council.

He said: “I know him, and I have spoken to him on several occasions. A little while ago we had a photograph of him taken with myself and several others. We had it framed and it was presented to him by the mayor. And he was very pleased with that.

“I met him only a couple of hours after the attack with blood streaming down his face.”

Mr Foster has spoken previously of of his long-standing interest in the environment and the natural world.

“I just like to keep this place tidy,” he said.