A COTSWOLD doctor has been honoured for a lifetime of service to others.

Dr David Rowlands, aged 85, has been given the North Cotswold Rotary Club's annual community service award in recognition of nearly 50 years caring for local people.

Before moving to the Cotswolds in 1955, the 85-year-old had also received a Croix de Guerre for his bravery while serving with the Free French Medical Service during the war.

As a GP, Dr Rowlands fought the threatened closure of Bourton's Moore Cottage Hospital and founded the village handicapped centre, now known as the Naight Club.

Presenting the award, Rotary president Alan Andrews said: "There can be no doubt that David Rowlands has made a huge contribution to the lives of people in the Bourton area and well deserves this award."