A COUNTY Durham man who has dedicated more than half a century to serving his community has been awarded an MBE.

Syd Howarth, of Newton Aycliffe, founded and runs the town's community newspaper the Newton News and has been providing residents with a voice for 52 years.

"It will be an honour to receive the MBE from royalty but I accept the award from my family and those in the community who have been so kind to recognise the efforts I have made on their behalf," he said.

After moving to the new town in 1963, Mr Howarth started up its first printing business.

He has since been keenly involved in the community as a member of the Rotary Club for 33 years and serving on numerous committees.

"The new town was in its infancy (in 1963) and the people accepted me and my young family with open arms," added Mr Howarth. "The townspeople and businesses here supported me and gave us their custom, helping Newton Press to expand its services.

"For over 50 years one of my guiding principles has been to give something back to the community which gave me, my family and my employees a living."