Chichester's "Mr Observer" retired this week after more than 40 years with the newspaper.

Peter Homer, (right), who began with the Observer in March, 1966, steps down as chief reporter and news editor.

But it won't be the end of the familiar Peter Homer byline, as he will continue to cover local government issues for the paper.

Editor Colin Channon said: "Peter is a journalist of the highest quality who has dedicated most of his career ensuring the readers of the Observer were kept up to date with everything that was happening in their area.

"I'm glad his immense knowledge of the local scene will continue to be evident in the Observer pages."

Colin's predecessor, Keith Newbery, editor from 1992-2006, added: "Peter has now worked with three editors over the years, but I'm sure the other two would agree with me that while we may have been in charge, he was the real Mr Observer.

"Indeed, some of the most enjoyable years of my journalistic career were spent beavering away at his right elbow. There I saw at close hand the master at work."

Graham Brooks, editor of the Observer from 1961-1992, said: "Chichester has been fortunate to have a local journalist of the calibre of Peter Homer.

"Week after week for 40 years he has given readers of the Observer a comprehensive, thorough and reliable account of everything of importance that has occurred in the city and the surrounding district.

"He is noted for his accuracy, his all-round ability, his fairness, his balanced reporting, and an integrity beyond question."