A journalist who was honoured by the town he served for more than four decades has died aged 87.

John Dromgool covered the town of Wem, in Shropshire, where he spent the vast majority of his life.

John, pictured, began his career on the Shrewsbury Chronicle at the age of 15 and also worked for the Whitchurch Herald.

Most of his career was spent working out of a small office in Wem for the North Shropshire Journal. He retired in 1992 but continued to freelance for many years after.

John had been born in Liverpool but spent his entire life in Wem after being evacuated there aged four due to the Second World War.

In 1987, he was given the title of Honorary Townsman by Wem Town Council.

According to a Shropshire Star obituary, John “immersed himself in the life of the town” and a play area close to the town hall is dedicated to his name.

He died on Saturday and is survived by his wife of 63 years Winifred, children Simon and Fae, four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

His funeral will be held on 28 April at Shrewsbury Crematorium, with donations to Parkinson’s UK and Wem Albion Bowling Club.