Aberaeron’s renowned street cleaner Maurice Horton has retired after more than 30 years of dedicated service to the town.

Described as ‘a tonic’ by many, the perennially-cheerful Maurice invariably greeted townsfolk and visitors alike with a remark on the weather, especially if it was sunny.

In return, they would receive a big smile followed by: “Hi, nice out.”

For those Maurice knew there was usually some news about the goings-on or happenings of the last few days.

A large crowd gathered to see him off on Thursday when he was thanked by Aberaeron’s county councillor Elizabeth Evans and town mayor Cllr Katrina James who said she had often been told that ‘every town needs a Maurice’.

“He will be missed,” she added.

A bench was then dedicated to Maurice outside the County Hall.