MIKE Humphreys, former head of Our Lady and St John Arts College, Blackburn, has been presented with the CBE which he was awarded in the New Year's Honours List to mark his contribution to education.

Mike attended the ceremony at the Palace to receive his medal and said it was one of the most nerve-wracking events he had ever attended.

He retired in August, after being a head teacher for 15 years and left the school with a strong reputation in terms of its pastoral and welfare support of its pupils.

The school was also recognised as a centre of excellence for performing arts and was awarded Arts College status just before this retirement.

Coun Mahfooz Hussain, executive member for education said: " Mr Humphreys thoroughly deserves this honour.

"This award recognises the hard work and effort that he has given to the school, its staff and pupils."