A news editor at a weekly paper who worked as a press photographer for many years has retired after a career in journalism of nearly 50 years.

Richard Reed has worked at the independently-owned Henley Standard for 11 years, starting out as assistant news editor in 2001 and becoming news editor three years later.

His career in journalism started in 1963 when he worked as a reporter for the Banbury Advertiser, before going on to work as a photographer for the Reading Chronicle, the Reading Evening Post and the Daily Mirror.

Richard then ran his own picture agency in Reading and worked as a freelance before joining the Standard.

He retired from the paper last month and chief reporter Phil Simms has now become acting news editor.

In an article about his retirement, Richard said: “After nearly 49 years I think it’s time to sit back and have a little rest.

“I would like to thank all the lovely people in Henley who have made my stay so lovely. I think it is a fantastic town and I hope people will continue to look after it. I am going to miss all the friends I have made here.”

During his time as a newspaper photographer, Richard won two prizes in the National Press Awards.

In his retirement, he plans to spend more time with his partner Jan, play golf, do cooking and take long walks in the countryside.