TRIBUTES have been paid to five retiring Winchester city councillors.

The longest serving is Ian Bidgood, who represents Col-den Common and Twyford.

As reported in the Daily Echo last week, Mr Bidgood has served in local politics for 35 years.

Members from all groups expressed their appreciation of Mr Bidgood's work in local government.

Mayor of Winchester, Neil Baxter, then presented him with a certificate and a framed map.

Another long-standing Liberal Democrat member, John Steel, is also bowing out of local politics.

A former council leader and mayor in 2002/03, he has represented Sparsholt for 12 years.

Council leader Sheila Campbell said they would miss his expertise and ability to get to the heart of an issue.

Mr Steel received a certificate from the mayor, as did two other Lib Dems who are stepping aside.

Graham Hutton, who represents Kings Worthy, is leaving after ten years. Richard Knasel, Cabinet member for economy and transport, who was first elected in Owslebury and Curdridge in 2002, is also standing down.

The fifth councillor who is stepping aside is Indepen-dent Paul Hoare, who represents Shedfield.