A headteacher from Lowestoft has described how he was 'very humbled' to have been made an MBE in the New Year's Honours List.

Ian Clayton was keen to emphasise the role that the wider community played in his honour, which he will collect from Buckingham Palace later this year.

Mr Clayton, who has been the principal at Thorpe St Andrew School for the last 15 years, was recognised for his services to education and desire to raise standards across the county and at a national level.

He has worked in Norfolk for over 30 years, including at Oriel High, Acle High and Costessey High.

In 2014, Thorpe St Andrew School was given an 'outstanding' rating by Ofsted.

Delighted at the outcome, Mr Clayton was still keen to emphasise that progress could still be made at the school.

'Working with other schools has always been a priority as head,' said Mr Clayton.

'I have the responsibility and am ultimately judged about the Thorpe St Andrew set of results, but my view has been wider than that in terms of education. It's not a narrow view that I have about league tables and exam results, it is a passionate belief in what education is about.'

Mr Clayton, who has lived in Lowestoft since 1985, said that being made an MBE was a 'proud moment'.

'It was a complete surprise but a great honour. You feel very humbled because people out there have taken the time to think that what I do is worthy of recognition.'

Do you know someone in Lowestoft who deserves recognition for what they have done? Email: joe.randlesome@archant.co.uk