LIFE really is the sweetest thing for schoolboy Harry Willsher who has landed himself a candy coated dream job...as an official sweet tester.

Happy Harry, 12, will get to guzzle down sackfuls of sweets after beating 3,000 other youngsters to win the prized post for confectionery company Swizzels Matlow.

Harry, of Mountnessing Road, Billericay, will have the task of sampling new sweets created by the Derbyshire-based firm, which will be sent to his home for testing over the coming year.

Harry applied for the job via e-mail after describing his favourite sweet made by the factory – drumstick lollies.

They also make Lovehearts, Refreshers and Cola Bottles.

Proud dad Tony Willsher, 44, who, along with his wife Joanne, 40, has already been to the family-run Swizzels Matlow factory with Harry for a guided tour.

He said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for Harry, he’s loving every minute.

“It was down to his writing skills that he got his job and we’re sure he’s going to get a lot out of it.

“Our whole family is delighted – especially our three other children who can’t wait to get their hands on some of the sweets.”

Harry has already been able to fill up five sackfuls of sweets to dish out to his fellow pupils at the Billericay School and to share with his siblings, Jazmine, 15, Oliver, seven, and Kyle, two-and-a-half.

Tony added: “The company have been so great. They’ve given Harry loads of sweets as a thank you for taking up the job.

“They also gave him £500 worth of vouchers to spend in Argos and Marks and Spencer. He has also been given his own overalls with his name embossed on them as well as business cards that say ‘sweet tester’.”

Tony says he doesn’t mind Harry tucking into sweets as long as he’s not overdoing it.

He said: “It’s all about commons sense and as long as it’s balanced out and he eats healthily, I don’t see the harm in it.”

Harry said: “I couldn’t be more delighted. I reckon it’s the world’s best job.”