A LEGENDARY Sidmouth Herald reporter became the first-ever journalist to be handed a town council honour.

Ex-news editor Di Bowerman was left “overwhelmed” when she was presented with a plaque to mark more than a decade of hard work.

Di, 62, was awarded the surprise accolade at her retirement bash in front of scores of friends at Kennaway House last Friday.

Town council chairman, Stuart Hughes, praised Di’s good work over the years and her fair, balanced and accurate reporting.

He thanked her for supporting the council’s work and covering countless meetings over the years.

Di, who lives in Colyton, said: “For once I was lost for words. I was completely overwhelmed - It’s a great honour. I know how rarely the council presents these.

“I’d like to thank all my Sid Valley contacts, and those from Beer and Branscombe, who have helped me over the past 11 years and I am glad so many were able to join me for a farewell drink.”