RETIRING parish clerk Mary Taylor was presented with a certificate and small gift in recognition of her 40 years of service to Bere Ferrers Parish Council both as assistant clerk and, for the last 30 years, clerk to the council.

Mr Richard Leithall, chair of the council, paid tribute to Mrs Taylor’s dedication over the years. He is seen here, right, Mary Taylor and husband Clive after the council’s dinner in her honour at The Bedford Hotel.