Friends and colleagues gathered to mark the retirement of 82-year-old Norman Beechey, founder and chairman of Age Concern Malvern and District.

The next chairman, Ken Borley, presented a cheque and bouquet to Mr Beechey and his wife, Olive, at a private function as a gesture of gratitude for dedicated service they have given to Malvern's senior citizens.

Following a successful career in publishing, Mr Beechey retired to Malvern in the mid-80s. Mrs Beechey explained: "It soon became apparent that the district lacked an organisation which could provide for the needs of the elderly. It was this vacuum which prompted us to create an Age Concern tailored for the area."

From a modest beginning in the pavilion at the Montrose Hotel, which Mr Beechey arranged to rent for £1 per week, the charity now provides many invaluable services for elderly residents in the area.