The former chairman of a political organisation has been recognised for his "outstanding contribution" to a party.

Mike Jackson stood as chairman of the Watford Labour party for 23 years, before stepping down last month due to ill health.

He has been involved in the party for nearly 50 years.

At Labour's regional conference in the east of England at the weekend, Mr Jackson was presented with the Outstanding Contribution Award by Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn.

Watford Observer:

It was awarded to Mr Jackson for his years of dedication to the Watford Labour Party.

Mr Corbyn said 'I can't think of Watford without thinking of Mr Jackson'.

He also gave Mr Jackson a pot of home made jam.

Watford Observer:

Mr Jackson said: "I was delighted to receive this award in recognition of my work for the Labour Party over five decades and also on behalf of thousands of other Labour stalwarts who are out on the doorstep every weekend listening to voters."

During his political career, Mr Jackson served as leader of Watford Borough Council, represented Woodside as a ward councillor for 16 years, stood to become MP for Watford in 1987 and 1992, and was national chairman of Labour students in the 1970s.

He has also acted as election agent in Watford in 13 general elections and countless local elections.

The Watford Labour Party elected Linda Meehan as its new chairman on January 16.