A weekly reporter known by colleagues as the “face” of his newspaper has retired after more than 50 years in journalism.

John Balment has worked his last day in newspapers in a career of more than half-a-century, most of which was spent at the Mid-Devon Advertiser.

The 69-year-old, known widely as ‘JB’ left its newsroom at the Tindle Newspapers-owned weekly for the last time earlier this month.

Colleagues showed their appreciation of his towering achievements by deluging him with gifts on his final day, including the traditional mock front page.

From left: Ruth Davey, sub-editor Mike Taylor, Sandra Perraton and John Balment

John, described by one colleague as “a man of few words despite writing millions of them,” thanked colleagues for their generosity and said he would miss the camaraderie of the office.

One of the more printable stories from his rich and varied life covering the local scene involved nervously interviewing the widow of a local dignitary at her home – with the deceased gentleman lying just a few feet away in the same room.

Editorial manager Ruth Davey said: “It’s been a pleasure to be in John’s orbit and see how a seasoned practitioner works. He has been a joy to work with, a sentiment I know everyone who has been lucky to know him will share.

“We wish him a long and happy retirement which is so justly deserved. Well done John. You’re a lovely bloke.”

Advertiser managing director Sandra Perraton added: “To many people in Newton Abbot and the surrounding towns John has been the face of the paper.

“His professionalism, his local knowledge and the network of contacts he built up over many years were extremely useful in getting the stories that mattered into the paper. As a friend and colleague I can say we’ll miss his presence in the newsroom.”