A FOND farewell was given to a councillor last week, as he left Ovingham Parish Council after 37 years of service.

Phil Holden joined Ovingham Parish Council in 1978 and has worked for the village for close to four decades.

Last Thursday, councillors gathered to say farewell to Coun. Holden, presenting him with two framed pictures of the village.

Chairman of the parish council, Doreen Jordan paid tribute to him saying: “Your decision to retire came as quite a shock to me because I thought you were here forever.

“I always thought of you as the quiet man, someone who worked so hard and gave so much time to the village, especially the playing fields.

“We have you to thank for so many successful planning applications and money spent on the playing fields.

“I could read a long list of things that you have done, you’re always willing to be involved with parish council decisions and projects and you gave everything to it.

“I hope you don’t mind me saying I’ve always thought of you as the Peter Pan of Ovingham; you have a few more grey hairs but you haven’t changed.

“Thank you for everything you’ve done for the village, you will be a big miss.”

Coun. Holden said: “I have enjoyed my time on the council but there comes a time when it’s right to make way and let fresh blood take over.

“Thank you for tolerating my foibles!”