WINCHESTER paid tribute to its outgoing Mayor last Friday.

Around 120 people attended a glitzy dinner at Winchester Guildhall to honour Cllr Frank Pearson.

Cllr Pearson said he had a fantastic year in the robes with plenty of memorable moments.

He said: “The whole year was a highlight. It was a unique experience and a unique year what with the Diamond Jubilee, the Olympics, the Paralympics and several royal visits.

“I had nearly 500 engagements and everyone Anne (The Mayoress) and I met was so welcoming. I had 500 highlights from a fantastic year and it would be unfair to pick any out above another.”

Former council leader George Beckett gave a toast to Cllr Pearson while Conservative Meon Valley MP George Hollingbery also gave a speech.