ONE of the city's oldest crimefighters has been awarded an MBE for his services to community safety.

Reg Law, 90, has dedicated more than ten years of his life to helping cut crime in the district with his involvement in the St Albans and District Neighbourhood Watch movement.

The Second World War veteran would dial every telephone directory entry in wards across St Albans, encouraging people to join the watch.

In 2009 his efforts were recognised by the Review newspaper when he was crowned one of the district's unsung heroes in our Community Gold Awards scheme.

Speaking about being honoured in the Queen's birthday honours list, Reg, of Thirlmere Drive, said: "It goes without saying that I feel quite proud. I want everybody to understand that I am a team leader.

"I am accepting this award on behalf of my neighbourhood watch team, because if I didn't have the team by my side I know I never would have got where I am today."

He added: "The one person I want to dedicate this award to is my late wife Elsie. She was the back-bone and my strength."

Reg stepped down from his role as Neighbourhood Watch chairman in November 2009 due to health problems, but has continued his involvement.

He has previously received an outstanding achievement award for his work with Neighbourhood Watch and was also given a lifetime presidency award.