At the council elections in May, nine councillors with a total of 107 years of experience between them either stepped down or lost their seat, and mayor Cllr Pat Nash held an event in the Mayor’s Parlour to thank them for their contribution to the city over the years.

At the reception, former city mayor John Bartlett, who was first elected in 1986, was presented with a six-sided bowl for his services to the council.

John Bleakney, who served for 11 years, was given a dome clock, which was collected on his behalf by grandson Matthew Johnson.

Allan Kempsell was also given a clock for his 10 and a half years service.

David Raines was presented with a decanter after serving 11 years as a councillor, while David Vellam was given a small dome clock for his two years’ service.

Cllr Nash said: “It was a very pleasant evening, and a great honour to make the presentations to the councillors, who have all worked extremely hard for the council and the city over the years.

“It was a shame Mr Bleakney was unable to make it, but his grandson was delightful. He was so proud to be the representative for his grandad, and was so polite.”

A reception earlier in the year had been held for Geoff Ridgway and David Thorpe, who served 31 and 12 years respectively.