Staff at the Knaresborough Post have said farewell to reporter Vonni Wilkins, who has retired after 28 years at the paper.

The veteran journalist first began working for the paper by writing Knaresborough Echoes, and has since held a variety of roles including chief reporter.

Bidding a fond farewell to Vonni, Jean MacQuarrie, editor of the Ackrill Media Group, which publishes the Post, paid tribute to her hard work, dedication, support and professionalism.

She said: “Over the years, many, many people have enjoyed working with Vonni and have always found her delightful, enthusiastic, interested and committed to her work and knowledge of all things to do with Knaresborough.”

During her time at the paper Vonni has been actively involved in many Knaresborough Post projects and campaigns, including its short story competition, the successful Save Manor Grange campaign, the Age Concern annual calendar, the Cliff House Appeal and the Teddy Bears for Romania appeal.

She became chief reporter eight years ago, before taking semi-retirement in 2002.

Since then she has worked part-time in the office, two days a week.

The Mayor of Knaresborough, Coun Robert Aspin said: “On behalf of Knaresborough Town Council, I would like to thank Vonni for all her work and support in the community.

“Vonni has worked for almost 30 years for the Knaresborough Post attending numerous engagements and providing helpful support for local groups too numerous to mention individually.

“I wish her well in retirement and hope she will still be able to come to the various events in Knaresborough.”