A packed courtroom bid a fond farewell to a much loved judge.

Judge Philip Clegg, 65, said his final goodbyes to Basildon Crown Court on Friday, after 12 years of presiding over trials there.

He will take up a new role as a roving judge, travelling to different courts across the South East to try serious cases.

Judge Christopher Mitchell paid tribute to Judge Clegg, at a leaving ceremony in a court room filled with judges, court staff and barristers.

He said: "This is a happy court and a pleasant place to work and that is in no small part down to his leadership."

Judge Clegg stepped down as Basildon's resident judge in December, but carried on sitting regularly in trials at the crown court until last week.

Speaking on behalf of the bar, John Dodd QC praised Judge Clegg's "wonderful sense of justice and compassion" and said he would be a "tough act to follow".

An emotional Judge Clegg said he was utterly overwhelmed by everyone's kind words.

He said: "We have had wonderful moments and some extremely sad moments, but such is the nature of courts.

"I consider myself a fortunate man. When I get up in the morning I look forward to the day with boyish enthusiasm.

"Today is the first morning I have not felt that enthusiasm."

Judge Clegg also thanked all the court staff and barristers for their support and added: "To all of you I am deeply indebted. I shall carry you all in my heart for as long as I live."