A DOCTOR who served as a councillor for more than 20 years is set to be honoured by his peers.

Former Colchester mayor Chris Hall, 72, has been recommended to become an honorary alderman, a historic title reserved for upstanding members of the community.

Colchester councillors recommended he receive the honour because of his involvement in the town as a whole and as a councillor for Castle Ward from 1987 until 2010.

As well as being town mayor from 2003 to 2004, Dr Hall has worked as a GP since 1967.

He admits his career took an “unexpected turn” when he went into local politics.

He said: “I certainly never intended a career in politics, but in the end it became an extension of the work I do as a doctor.

"I already knew the town, the people and how it ticked, and it was a great thing to be able to help people solve their various problems.

“It is a real honour to be recognised in this way and I am delighted.”

As well as taking time throughout his political career to work as a school governor, a director of the Mercury Theatre and a member of Colchester Rovers Cycling Club and Lexden Choral Society, he is now studying German at Essex University.

The father of four and grandfather of eight is still working in medicine, and next year hopes to cycle from Land’s End to John O’Groats.

The recommendation will go to the full council meeting on March 23.