A CHAUFFEUR who has driven many a councillor round the bend en-route to official visits has been awarded an MBE.

Arthur Nutter, aged 64, has driven for Lancashire county council's chairmen, chief executives and councillors since 1953, and was chauffeur to Lord-Lieutenant Simon Towneley for 20 years.

He declined the invitation to go to Buckingham Palace, preferring to stay in Preston where family, friends and colleagues could see the ceremony.

Arthur said: "I was quite shocked when I found out about the MBE. I never expected it. It's nice to know you've been appreciated all these years."

The Barton-based chauffeur was praised for his dedication, efficiency and cheerfulness. He often planned routes in his own time to make sure the journey ran smoothly.

Arthur added: "A good chauffeur should get on with people, have lots of patience and dedication, and should just get on with the job in the background."

The Lord-Lieutenant of Lancashire, the Lord Shuttleworth awarded the MBE in a special ceremony at the County Hall.

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