Reg Herbert, former editor-in-chief of the Evening Leader newspaper group, has been awarded an MBE by the Queen for his services to journalism.

The popular journalist, pictured right, who served the Wrexham and Evening Leader from 1959 until his retirement in October, said he was shocked and surprised at the news.

He said: "If this award is for my years in journalism, I must say I've been very lucky to have worked with such excellent people for so many years not just journalists but everyone involved with the production of ournewspapers.

"I've also been very fortunate to have been in love with the job I have done for so many years. I'd do it all over again if I had the chance."

Reg, originally from Aigburth, Liverpool, joined the Evening Express in Liverpool as a junior, after completing his National Service in 1957.

When that newspaper merged with the Liverpool Echo he found himself out of a job and went to Wrexham in 1959 to complete his training with the Wrexham Leader. He was eventually promoted to the post of chief reporter and then assistant editor under Tony Lloyd, and later became editor.

He rose to become editor of the Evening Leader and finally editor-in-chief of the Evening Leader group of newspapers until his retirement.

Reg still works as a freelance journalist and is a big Everton and Wrexham football fan. He is also a member of Wrexham Erddig Rotary Club and enjoys swimming.

Russell Whitehair, chairman of North Wales Newspapers, publishers of the Evening Leader said: "We are delighted Reg Herbert has been honoured in this way by the Queen for the lifetime of services he has given to journalism.

"An ambassador for North Wales Newspapers for more than 43 years this award reflects the dedication, sensitivity and open-handed way he went about his job and the huge respect and affection that the community has for him.

"Reg has been an active participant in many local organisations and charitable groups and has worked unstintingly to promote North East Wales and, in particular Wrexham, his adopted town.".

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