RED Funnel's Dancing Jim has been crowned VisitEngland's tourism superstar.

Jim O'Reilly, a Red Funnel employee who uses his own dance moves as he directs cars on and off the ferries, came first place in the national competition organised by the Daily Mirror.

Jim, 53, was nominated by Visit Isle of Wight.

The competition recognises the dedication and passion of those working in the tourism industry and is awarded to an individual who goes above and beyond the call of duty to ensure visitors have an unforgettable experience.

Jim beat nine others to the top spot.

Visit Isle of Wight said in a statement: "We're enormously proud of the unforgettable visitor experience he brings to the Isle of Wight which has now been recognised in this national competition."

Jim, of Cowes, is a familiar figure to customers on the Southampton to East Cowes route.

He said: "My approach is to give everyone a warm welcome when they arrive and then bid them a fond farewell.

"I like to help start and finish their holiday with a smile and hope they have a great time in between as well.

"I'm out there having fun, and if you are too that’s fantastic."

Jim admits that when he started dancing, his colleagues weren’t sure what to think.

But there is an additional benefit for Jim, as he suffers from arthritis and had a hip replacement at 45, but the dancing helps keep his body active.