Crown court judges have described a journalist as a "cornerstone to our democracy" for his 10 years of service.

Judge Simon James praised KM Group’s Paul Hooper as a “font of all knowledge", after the reporter departed Canterbury Crown Court, where he has covered countless high-profile cases.

The judge described the 65-year-old ex-Fleet Street stalwart’s services as a “cornerstone to our democracy” and emphasized the importance of press freedom.

He added: “He has become a friend to many a colleague, and staff have asked me to pass a token of their esteem to Paul.”

The judge described Mr Hooper – known to his colleagues as ‘Scoop’ – as an “omnipresent” journalist with an “eye for a good story.”

He added: “Thank you Paul for your expertise.”

In a speech barrister John Fitzgerald quipped Mr Hooper was a “quick witted man always with a joke for any occasion.

“But the jokes are never any good though,” he added.

Mr Hooper will go on to serve Maidstone Crown Court, the town where he lives, still on behalf of the KM Group.

A journalist for 44 years, 'Scoop’ spent 13 of those as a staff writer at the Sun.

He then worked on news desks of Sunday Times, Sunday People, Sunday Mirror and Daily Mirror before joining the KM as a court correspondent.

In his farewell speech, Mr Hooper applauded the work of Kent Police and judges.

He also thanked staff for their support following the death of his “sweet wife” Ann, who fought multiple sclerosis for 30 years.

He said: “Within weeks of working here I suffered the catastrophic loss of the only woman I have ever loved, my sweet wife.

"It is no exaggeration to say this court family bound my wounds like a tourniquet and helped stem the hemorrhaging.

"I will always be grateful for the unexpected kindnesses from everyone here. Some of you are very special.

"So before I get too sentimental can I pay tribute to the skill and dedication of the judges, advocates and also a special mention to the much maligned police officers in Kent.

"I have seen close up the care they have shown to the victims of some horrific crimes.

"Kent has every right to be proud of its police force and its judicial services."

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