LEADING members of Blackburn's Asian community gathered to thank the editor of the Lancashire Evening Telegraph, Peter Butterfield, for his work building community relations during the last 15 years.

Mr Butterfield, who is set to retire as editor of the Evening Telegraph later this month, was guest of honour at the Tandoori Kitchen restaurant in Darwen Street, Blackburn.

The presentation was attended by businessmen, councillors and community leaders from the town's Asian community. Former racial equality worker Naushad Surve presented Mr Butterfield with a cut glass eagle and wished him a happy retirement.

Mr Surve said: "Peter has a down-to-earth and caring nature. His coverage has enhanced the development of minorities and other needy disadvantaged groups in East Lancashire.

"He stamped his authority against abuse of power and corruption in our society. He will be sadly missed both as a friend of the common people and as a tower of strength for people who want to express their views but lack the courage to do so."

Mr Butterfield, one of the longest serving daily newspaper editors in the regional press, has been Lancashire Evening Telegraph editor since February 1985. He will retire on May 28 -- his 57th birthday.