A weekly newspaper editor who has worked for 25 years for a regional publisher was among 18 employees to be honoured for their long service.

Bridgnorth Journal editor Peter Carroll, who is also a motoring journalist, was recognised by the Midland News Association at the company’s Long Service Awards.

At a ceremony, 18 workers who had notched up a total of 520 years between them, pictured below, were presented with a specially-created front page from the day they started work.

Former MNA managing director Alan Harris, who retired in April after 45 years with the publisher, was the longest-serving worker to be honoured.

Among others to be recognised were Shropshire Magazine editor Neil Thomas, who has clocked up 35 years with the company and Adrian Birchall of the Shropshire Star’s production team, who has worked there for 25 years.

MNA chairman Douglas Graham told the staff members: “You can all be proud of what you have done to help achieve what we have achieved here over the years.

“You have always been innovative and taken on new challenges. I think it’s a tribute to you all for what you have been able to achieve.”

Alan, who still sits on the board of directors, started out as administrator at the Shropshire Star before becoming advertising director.

He moved to work for the Wolverhampton-based Express and Star 12 years ago as a group manager then became managing director.

Alan said: “I enjoyed working with the people here over the years. I’m delighted to have achieved 45 years service with a group like MNA.

“The industry has gone through tremendous changes over the years but we have some great newspapers in Shropshire and the West Midlands and some really good weekly newspapers.”

Each person was presented with a tie or neckerchief and received a special gift, like an expensive watch or iPad.