ARISE Sir Hugh; words a young Mr Bayley could scarcely of dreamed of when he first entered Parliament as MP for York Central.

But they were on Prince Charles’ lips yesterday as he awarded Hugh Bayley the insignia of Knight Bachelor of the British Empire for his work with Nato.

Sir Hugh has served York well since 1992, putting the city first and politics second. He will stand down in May and many will miss his steadying influence.

Hopefully Johnny Hayes will be staying on a bit longer in his role as chairman of Bishopthorpe Road traders’ association, because the Prime Minister has just named him a point of light for his inspirational leadership.

Good for you, Johnny. No wonder Bishy Road is the Notting Hill of the North.