TRIBUTES have been paid to one of the country's longest-serving parish council chairmen, after he stepped down following more than 40 years in the role.

Councillor Clark Stones, who has served as a member of Arkengarthdale Parish Council for 51 years, has led the authority in the northern Yorkshire Dales since September 1973.

He has overseen numerous improvements in the area, including the installing of a footpath through the dale from Langthwaite and road improvements to ensure pedestrians' safety.

Cllr Stones also led moves to build a car park at Langthwaite and presided over the dale's celebrations for the Queen's silver and gold jubilees.

Former vice-chairman Councillor Stephen Stubbs, another long-serving council member, has taken over as the council's chairman, while members persuaded Cllr Stones to remain on the council in the position of vice-chairman.

To honour Cllr Stones, the council has dedicated a new bench to him.

Cllr Stubbs said: "I would like to take this opportunity to thank Clark for over 41 years of service.

"When Clark became chairman in 1973, you could buy pint of lager for 14 pence, a litre of diesel for eight pence and the average price for a detached three bed property was £16,980.

"A lot has changed since then, during which time Clark's wealth of local knowledge and approachability has been of great benefit to the dale.

"I admire Clark's selfless and intelligent chairmanship which always had the benefit of Arkengarthdale as a priority."