A former weekly newspaper reporter has been honoured for “outstanding services” to her old patch.

Moira Baker, who used to work at the Alton Herald, will receive an award from the Alton Society in recognition of her work in the Hampshire town.

The Outstanding Services to Alton Award is given to those who work hard to make a difference in Alton through work, voluntary activity or both.

A panel of society members, former winners and the public picks a winner from those nominated. Moira, pictured,   will receive her award in a ceremony next month.

Her citation noted she had used her “first-class journalistic skills to report Alton’s affairs tirelessly and lucidly, sometimes having to resist pressure to back down on her forthright reporting”.

It added: “She provided an accessible and receptive ear for the concerns of local people. She maintained the profile and vigour of the Alton edition, concentrating on Alton’s affairs. She is much missed in this role.

“As Moira Baker she was the first woman to serve as Alton Lions president. She became president again in July.

“As a prominent Lion she is a familiar presence, working long hours in all weathers in support of local events such as the classic car show and the local litter picks with her Lions team.

“At the beginning of Covid she helped set up the Alton and District Resilience Fund, co-ordinating many local groups to help people adversely affected by the pandemic.

“Fellow Lions report she is full of ideas and is an inspiration, for example by organising laptops for children during Covid and now for Ukrainian refugees. She is a well-deserved winner of this year’s award.”