One of Helsby Parish Council’s longest-serving councillors has retired.

Frank Thomas was presented with a gift and certificate from Cheshire Association of Local Councils at the council’s recent annual general meeting.

Frank, who has lived in the same house since he moved to the village from Runcorn in 1961, joined Helsby Parish Council in 1991 and served as chairman between 1995 and 1997.

He was instrumental in fighting for a disabled crossing at Helsby station and organised the Swim Bus to take Helsby schoolchildren to swimming baths.

Away from the council, he was one of the founding editors of Helsby News, chairman of Vale Royal Sports Council and is a life member of the North Cheshire Rail Users Group.

He will remain as chairman of the Patient Participatory Group at Helsby Medical Centre.

Frank wished Helsby Parish Council every success and to keep flying the flag for local democracy.

Cllr Chris Ellams paid tribute to Frank’s ‘commitment and passion’ which he applied to any problem he encountered.

“Since I joined the parish council about seven years ago, Frank has always been there to offer words of advice, especially in my year as chairman,” he said.

“It is sad to see such a stalwart of the village decide to retire, but I wish Frank and his wife Jennifer many happy years of retirement from parish council duties.”