A CHIMNEY sweep from Runcorn who battled to overcome a blood infection has been presented with an award for the second time.

John Baldacchino, 45, from Wilkins Chimney Sweep (West Cheshire) was in competition with 13 other franchisees across the country.

This is despite developing the blood infection cellulitis in 2016 where he was work for more than six weeks while he recovered.

Yet, being off sick didn’t prevent John achieving a double digit growth in profits, returning his best ever financial results.

He said: “I’m delighted to have won the award for franchisee of the year for the second time.

“I’m especially pleased about the number of congratulations I’ve received from my customers.”

John sweeps chimneys and fits cages, caps and cowls to properties across the north west.

He bought the franchise in 2012.

He was recognised for his innovation, customer service and willingness to help develop new technologies.

Franchise director Louise Harris said: “We were delighted to award John his second and much deserved franchisee of the year award.

“He is terrific for so many reasons and is an outstanding ambassador.”