SANDFORD Parish Council has presented its former clerk with a recognition award, farewell card and theatre token.

Malcolm Vallance retired in March, having served the parish for more than 41 years since his appointment in 1983.

Highlights of his career include Sandford winning the Best Kept Village Contest, the Millenium Green, the Church Parks housing development, Sandford Stores being acquired by the parish and more.

“It’s been a privilege to serve as Sandford parish clerk, and as an unofficial ambassador for the parish and above all, the keeper of the 1894 annual parish minutes book which is still in use today,” he said earlier this year.

Mr Vallance is now clerk to Thelbridge Parish Council.