A PADGATE man has bagged the dream job of many people having landed a new role that will see him being paid to sleep.

Desmond Wilcox, described as a man who can sleep absolutely anywhere, has been picked from hundreds of applicants who applied for the position of sleep ambassador at bed and mattress makers Sealy.

The job will see him earn £100-per-sleep while he tests out the company’s products while also trialling sleep aids and diets that help with rest.

Former barber Desmond, who spends his free time gardening, beat other shortlisted applicants, including a ‘sleep fanatic’ from Scotland and a ‘corpse sleeper’ from Worcester, to the position.

The 70-year-old said: “I saw the advert in the Telegraph and I just had to apply – I consider myself to be an expert sleeper and I’m also a good communicator having spent 50 years working in my barber’s shop.

“I have been an ambassador all my working-life selling myself so the switch from that role will be simple.

“I also love a challenge and am looking forward to the fun of being involved in the project and making a good job of it.”

Neil Robinson from Sealy said that Desmond had been selected for his wealth of experience in sleeping.

He said: “The selection process was a tough one and we had a challenge shortlisting the applications, let alone selecting a candidate to appoint.

“Desmond stood out to us – he is clearly very experienced when it comes to sleep and he’s lucky enough not to have any problems with this, he can sleep anywhere at all.

“While undoubtedly it is a fun position we do view this as an important job and Desmond will provide valuable feedback about our products, as well as debunking sleep myths.

“We wish him all the best in the role.”