MINEHEAD magistrate Joe Passmore made his last appearance in West Somerset Magistrates' Court on Friday as he retired from duties after 17 years of service to the bench.
Fellow magistrates and court staff, including solicitors, probation workers and prosecutors, paid tribute to Mr Passmore's "professionalism and wisdom".
Defence solicitor Crispin Hodges said: "I have been very appreciative of the advice you have given over the years and we will all be sorry to see you go."
Mr Passmore said he was indebted to all the court staff and fellow magistrates for their support over the years.
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"The Crown Prosecution Service has no rancour - it is all done very nicely, efficiently and without any prejudice of any sort.
"It has been a particular privilege to work in this area."