POLICE have paid tribute to Ricky Paull, who has just retired as chairman of the Buckland Monachorum neighbourhood watch scheme.

Ricky, now 77, felt he no longer had the drive to continue doing the job.

West Devon commander Chief inspector Barry Frost said: 'Ricky has put a lot of time and effort into improving and developing the watch schemes in the Buckland Monachorum area. I and local officers should like to thank him.'

Parish councillor Stephen Fryer added: 'The village owes a debt of gratitude to Ricky for the way he developed and maintained the neighbourhood watch ideal in Buckland Monachorum. We have enjoyed many years of virtually crime-free living and for that we have Ricky and his coordinators to thank. He will be a hard act to follow and we hope he will enjoy his retirement.'

Anyone who wishes to take the role on should call Ricky on 01822 855208.