Syd Howarth, founder of Aycliffe’s weekly newspaper Newton News has been awarded the MBE in the New Year’s Honours List for services to the community.
Syd moved to Newton Aycliffe in 1963 to start the new town’s first printing business and it wasn’t long before Newton Press took over the local monthly magazine and gave the town its own newspaper, claiming to be the first ever free news sheet, financed entirely by advertisers and delivered free to every household.
Syd said: “The town was in its infancy and the people accepted me and my young family with open arms. We adopted Newton Aycliffe as our home along with other pioneering entrepreneurs who recognised Aycliffe’s potential. The townspeople and local businesses gave me good support, helping Newton Press expand its services.
“I recall in the first months in business having difficulty opening an account with a paper company who were doubtful about supplying and giving credit to a new business with no references. A director of a town furniture shop heard of my problem and immediately stood as a guarantor. My bank manager gave me the capital I needed for new machinery without security. This was the level of community spirit and support in the new town where everyone supported each other”.
Syd has been a member of many town organisations serving as an officer or committee member. He was a member of the Round Table and has been a Rotarian for over 33 years. He was honoured to be elected as Rotary International District Governor for the North East in 2004-5.
It is as an Aycliffe Rotarian that he spearheaded many projects notably the Nature Park behind Tallents which he acquired from the owners of the Industrial Estate and brokered the ownership being transferred to the Town Council. Two other prominent achievements were the new War Memorial outside St. Clare’s Church and the refurbishment of the Blue Bridge, welcome sign and benches.
Syd commented: “One of my guiding principles has been to give something back to the community which gave me, my family and my employees a living. I love my town and support it fully in every way possible. The Newton News has given residents a voice, and by reflecting public opinion in its columns has actively influenced decision making in our locality.
Syd has turned down two previous nominations for an award, being a critic of the system, but this time it was sprung on him, and because it was initiated by family and friends felt he could not refuse the honour they bestowed.
“I may receive the insignia from Royalty, but I accept the award from my family and those in the community who have been so kind to recognise my work for Aycliffe. I thank everyone who has phoned, sent text messages and posted facebook messages. I have been overwhelmed by the reaction to being awarded the MBE and will wear it with pride” said Syd.
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