FERRYHILL Town Council projects assistant Alan Grey has been presented with a number of leaving gifts from Deputy Mayor Councillor Doreen Greenwell.

He left with the thanks of all councillors as well as other organisations he has worked with, including the Ferryhill 2000 committee, the local church and all of his colleagues.

Mr Grey has worked as right-hand man to executive officer Jamie Corrigan for four years, helping with many of the town council's projects.

He has been particularly influential in organising many successful events in the town, including the Ferryhill Gala and the Christmas market.

Council leader Councillor Joseph Chaplin said: "Alan will be dearly missed, he has been an asset to the town council and to Ferryhill."

Mr Grey is planning to spend more time on the golf course in his retirement and hopes to improve his handicap.

A report on proposals for his replacement will be submitted to town council members in the near future.