Islington Gazette editor Tony Allcock is celebrating 40 years at the paper.

To mark the occassion staff at the title threw a surprise party, where they paid tribute to their hard-working boss who has led the paper to a string of award wins, including the current Archant Newspaper of the Year title.

England were the new World Cup holders when Tony joined the Gazette as a 19-year-old reporter in 1966.

He swiftly rose through the ranks to become editor, a post he has held for more than 30 years.

He is also group editor of Archant London’s North London Newspapers series, which includes the Camden Gazette and the Hornsey Journal series.

North London Newspapers publishing director Dave Blake, who presented Tony with a crystal decanter, said: “In my working career, Tony is the most professional, hard working and honest colleague I have had the pleasure to work with.

“He must take a lot of credit for the success and longevity of the Islington Gazette.”

Tony said he was “touched and moved” by the good wishes and support of his colleagues.

He said: “It reinforced why I have continued to work here for 40 years – it’s more than just a job. North London Newspapers is a great bunch of people, with a special spirit.”

Earlier this year the Islington Gazette celebrated its 150th birthday.