A LONG-SERVING councillor and Conservative party member has been recognised for his contribution to North-East politics with an MBE.

Councillor Ian Galletley, who represents the College ward on Darlington Borough Council, was presented with the honour by Prince Charles at Buckingham Palace to mark his 44 years of service in politics.

Cllr Galletley, a former chairman of the North-East Conservative Party also served on the now defunct Teesdale District Authority and is office manager and agent for James Wharton, MP for Stockton South.

Accompanied by his wife, Tess, daughter Olivia and son-in-law, David, Cllr Galletley travelled to London on Friday for the investiture.

Cllr Galletley said: "I had a conversation with Prince Charles and told him what high regard he is held in Teesdale and how important is his support for threatened rural communities.

"The Prince said that he had a deep affection for the whole dale, but particularly Upper Teesdale, which he wishes he could visit more often.

"We also talked about Darlington's work to generate new industry and the stresses of political life."