A VETERAN councillor who has served Canvey for more than 30 years has been awarded an MBE in the Queen's Birthday Honours.

Ray Howard, who stepped down from Essex County Council in May, has been made a Member of the Order of the British Empire for his services to Local Government and the community on Canvey.

The 74-year-old, affectionately known as Mr Canvey, was first elected as a Tory county councillor in 1985. He rose through the authority to become deputy councillor responsible for Highways.

He also serves Castle Point Council as a councillor for West ward, where he will remain until May 2018, when his current term ends.

Mr Howard has campaigned for many years on flood and waste matters, and was one of five people to have helped bring the current seawall to Canvey to protect it from tidal flooding.

He was the first person invited to meet Princess Margaret in 1983 when she came to the Island to officially open the new wall and barrier.

Ray Howard said: “I was very, very, very pleased to learn I was being recognised. I have been in public service since I was first elected in 1968 and receiving this sort of recognition is just wonderful. It is also humbling because I know so many people are working so hard for the community in Canvey and even as I accept this honour I am mindful of all the work they are doing.” 

Cllr John Aldridge, Chairman of Essex County Council said: “Ray has been a hard working and diligent councillor serving the people of Canvey for decades.

"This award is a fitting reward for his commitment and a tribute to his dedication over his many years of working in local government. Congratulations to him.” 

Cllr David Finch, Essex County Council Leader, said: “I would like to congratulate Ray on receiving this award. He has done an excellent job representing the people of Essex as cabinet and local members, and thoroughly deserves this kind of recognition. 

“He is a fantastic examples of what it means to be a public servant and what he achieved for Essex and the communities he represents will forever stand as a testament to his commitment.”