The assistant editor of Mid Somerset Newspapers has received a top honour from the City of Wells.

Michael Chamberlain has been made a Freeman of Wells at a meeting of the city council.

The title is recognition for Michael’s work as a journalist in the local community for more than 30 years.

Colleagues at Mid Somerset Newspapers said it was a matter of when, and not if, their assistant editor would be awarded the honour.

Titles in the group include the Central Somerset Gazette, Wells Journal, Shepton Mallet Gazette and the Cheddar Valley Gazette.

The veteran journalist was diagnosed with throat cancer in May and is currently taking time off from work to recover.

He was informed of the honour at his home by Councillor Jean Hague.

Michael said: “I am extremely honoured to be singled out for this award. It’s not only for me but for my family.”

The diagnosis of Michael’s illness came as a deep shock to his colleagues and the hundreds of local people with whom he has earned a bond of trust and friendship over the years.

It is not the first time Michael has faced a serious health problem. As a boy he contracted polio which left him disabled in one arm and leg after spending a year in hospital. Colleagues believe the strength that helped him beat polio will also see off the cancer.