Hitchin’s long-serving town centre manager had a day to remember on Tuesday after he received an MBE from the Queen in a red carpet ceremony at Windsor Castle.

Keith Hoskins was recognised for his services to the community in the honours list published to mark the new year.

He told the Comet: “It was just a really lovely day. The weather was beautiful, and the setting at Windsor Castle was resplendent.

“The Queen has traditionally had strong links with Hitchin – and very fond memories of visiting here in the summer of 2012.

“It was an honour to receive the award – but I accepted it on behalf of the town itself.

“It’s an honour for Hitchin, not myself.

“The medal will be on show in the Hitchin Initiative shop in Churchyard for the next week.”