A councillor has been recognised for his years of service to the community by being given the title Freeman of the Parish of Sarratt.

Tony Barton, who served as a Three Rivers district councillor for 17 years, was given the unexpected honour at a Sarratt Parish Council meeting last week.

Mr Barton said: "It was a nice farewell and they (the parish council) have never done it before.

"We do what we do as councillors. We try and give something back and a recognition of thanks feels like a million pounds."

The award recognises "the outstanding work and distinguished services" of Mr Barton.