A stalwart of life in Alresford has been recognised for his hard work in a celebration ceremony hosted by the New Alresford Town Trust.

The trust marked the contribution of Bernard Tucker, who served the community in Old Alresford for 30 years and chaired Old Alresford Parish Council for 26 years.

Mr Tucker founded The Old Alresford Dramatic Society in 1986, chaired the village hall committee and was described as “skilful and calm” when guiding the parish council.

Steve Brine – the MP for Winchester and Chandler’s Ford, whose constituency includes Alresford – gave the main speech in praise of Mr Tucker’s achievements. He said: “Bernard gave his time selflessly in his many years for the local community and this is much appreciated.”

Trust chair Robin Atkins reminded Mr Tucker of the support it had received from Old Alresford Parish Council, which has granted the trust £8,100 since 2008 – including £6,600 to support the town’s minibus, and £1,500 to enable the Eel House to complete a large structural project last year and produce a historical eel house booklet and information boards.

Mr Tucker thanked the trust for its gifts, including membership of the New Alresford Town Trust.

He said: “I am certain that the close relationship between New Alresford Town Trust and Old Alresford Parish Council will continue.”