A PARISH council clerk has stood down after nearly half a century.

Gordon Glass became the administrator at Healeyfield Parish Council, in Derwentside, in June 1958.

Now he has decided to hand over his role to someone else because of ill health.

However, Mr Glass will continue to serve Castleside as a ward councillor with Derwentside District Council.

Coun Glass said: "I have seen some changes in my time. It used to just be a body that would mend fences and report things, but it is much more professional now and has its own agenda.

"I have really enjoyed my time there."

He was presented with a watch as thanks for his services at a ceremony organiser by councillors.

Coun Glass said: "I was shocked, because I was told I was being taken out for a meal. It came as a real surprise, but it was very nice."