A councillor has been honoured for his "inspirational" 40 years of service to the borough of Barnet.

Cllr Melvin Cohen, who was elected to represent the Golders Green ward in 1982 was presented with a certificate at Barnet Council's annual general meeting at Hendon Town Hall on May 24.

Cllr Cohen, who has also served two mayoral terms - in 2003/04 and 2013/14 - said: "Things have changed so much in 40 years. I preceded the age of technology and I guess I have been left a little behind, but I have enjoyed my time on this council over the years.

"I am really looking forward to the next four years serving my constituents in Golders Green and the inhabitants of this illustrious borough in general."

Conservative politician Cllr Cohen has lived in Barnet most of his life and was educated at Wessex Gardens Primary School and Hasmonean Grammar school before attending University College London.

The 'Long Service Award' winner has raised significant amounts of money for his mayoral charity appeals and his son Dean is a councillor too in Golders Green,

Cllr Angela Cornelius, who presented Cllr Cohen's award as one of her final duties as mayor, said: "I have great pleasure in presenting this award on behalf of the mayor and burgesses of the London Borough of Barnet in recognition of 40 years loyal and dedicated service to the residents of the Borough. This is a truly incredible and remarkable achievement.

"I have known Cllr Melvin Cohen since I joined the council in 2009 and it has been a pleasure getting to know and work alongside him. Together with all Barnet councillors, I wish him well as he continues to serve the borough and community he loves."

Leader of the Conservative group, Cllr Daniel Thomas, said: "[Melvin's] dedication to his community and the borough is an inspiration and I know I can speak for all our colleagues in saying thank you and congratulations on 40 years of service to Barnet."

The leader of the Barnet Labour group and newly-elected council leader, Cllr Barry Rawlings, congratulated Cllr Cohen on his award and said 40 years is an "astonishing feat".