TRIBUTES have been paid to John Dormer, who has stepped down from Great Aycliffe Town Council after more than 40 years.

Mr Dormer, who is continuing as a member of Durham County Council, first moved to Newton Ayclffe in 1958 and joined the former parish council a year later.

He also served on the former Darlington Rural District Council and the Peterlee and Aycliffe Development Corporation.

Coun Bob Fleming, who recently stepped down as council leader, said: "As long as I've been involved in local politics, John Dormer has been synonymous with service to the people of Newton Aycliffe.

"He's given great and sterling service to this council and this town and he'll still be giving great service as a county councillor."

Mr Dormer, a former mayor of Great Aycliffe, did have an eight year break from the council before returning in 1987.

He thanked all of the staff and members he has worked with over the years.

Mr Dormer told councillors: "Without a shadow of a doubt this is probably the finest town council in the country.

"It's well respected and will be for many years to come. I'm not completely retiring and I will be thinking of you and keeping an eye on you."

Mayor Coun Malcolm Iveson and deputy mayor Coun Maude Gray presented Mr Dormer with a gift in appreciation of his years of service.