A LONG-SERVING Fordingbridge town councillor has stepped down after years of serving the community.

Councillor David Price was given a special send off by fellow councillors on Wednesday evening before the monthly full council meeting at the town hall.

He was elected on to the council on May 6, 1999 and previously served as deputy mayor.

Cllr Price said that the time was right to step down from his councillor role, adding: “It has been a long time, too long to remember.

“It was nice to do and I miss it already.

“I thought that now’s the time.”

He added: “There has been some nice times,” he added.

“Coming in here on a Wednesday night for a meeting was a night out,” he laughed.

“We all help each other and all have our ups and downs.”

Former Fordingbridge mayor, Cllr Malcolm Connolly, said: “It has been a pleasure to work with David. He has his own point of view and was never frightened to say what’s on his mind which is a credit to him and keeps us on our toes.

“He’s been an absolute pleasure to work with. We and Fordingbridge Town Council will miss you.”