A STOGURSEY man said he is honoured to receive an OBE for services to the community.

Allan Searle, who is now 80, has been a member of Stogursey Parish Council for 26 years, and its chairman for the past 16 years.

He is also a committed volunteer on the village hall committee and a trustee to Stogursey: Charities for the Poor, which oversees the village’s almshouses.

He said: “I came here in 1961 when I married a local girl and I have been passionate about Stogursey all my life. I like to do little bits where I can.

“We are right on the doorstep of Hinkley and I want to make sure we get the best deal we can for the community.

"It is an honour to have been chosen for this award.”