A Newham Recorder writer is celebrating the publication of his 1,000th column in the paper.

Robert Barltrop, (82), has been entertaining readers with his musings and memories for 20 years, writing his first article for the Archant weekly in February 1985.

Over the years he has commented on subjects as far-ranging as young parents, abandoned babies and Christmas, and to mark the massive milestone the paper held a special reception in his honour.

Among the guests at the lunch at the paper's East Ham offices was former Newham Recorder editor, and now fellow columnist, Tom Duncan, and current editor Colin Grainger, who thanked Robert for his superb efforts over the years.

Robert, who also draws pictures to go alongside his column and is the author of seven books, was presented with pictures and a special mock front page to mark his achievement.

Addressing well-wishers, Robert thanked the Recorder staff for their accuracy and efforts over his 1,000 columns and praised his wife Mary for "always being there" to support him.

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