A WORCESTER man has become the jewel in the crown of a top retail body.

Richard Peplow, of Peplow jewellers in High Street, has been named president of the Retail Jewellers Association.

He was given the president's badge at a special ceremony in the House of Lords in London.

The honour will be added to his existing role as spokesman for the World Jewellery Confederation.

Mr Peplow said: "I am delighted to have been chosen as president.

"The company has been a member of the Retail Jewellers Association since it was launched more than 100 years ago, and I have been a member for more than 50.

"I will travel the UK and Eire during my two years in office. I already travel the world with the Jewellery Confederation, so I will be very busy."