THE Mayor of Winchester David McLean gave a dinner in Abbey House, in honour of Professor Martin Biddle CBE, Director of Winchester Research Unit to celebrate his recent 80th birthday.

The rare honour was in recognition of the archaeological work done over more than 50 years and his ongoing commitment to the city of Winchester over many decades.

In his reply to the Mayor, Prof Biddle who has been responsible for a major part of the archaeological excavation of the city back to Roman times, thanked the Mayor and all those present representing Winchester City Council, Hampshire County Council and the people of Winchester for their continuing interest and support for his work going back to the 1960's.

Among the guests were the Bishop of Winchester, the Right Rev Tim Dakin, two former mayors, civic and university dignitaries, including the vice chancellor Joy Carter, Dame Mary Fagan former Lord Lieutenant of Hampshire, together with friends and family and members of Winchester Excavations Committee.

Prof Biddle is also an honourary freeman of Winchester.